Unseen Dementia: The Hidden Challenge in Cognitive Decline

A new type of dementia is making experts rethink how they understand and treat memory loss.

What is LATE?

This condition, called LATE (Limited Age-Related Temporal Lobe Epilepsy), is becoming more recognized. It is now believed to affect about one-third of people aged 85 and older and 10% of those aged 65 and older. Many people who thought they had Alzheimer's might actually have LATE.

Diagnosis and Progression

Doctors are now better at spotting LATE. Guidelines for identifying it were published this year. However, LATE is different from Alzheimer's. It often progresses more slowly and is less severe on its own. But when LATE occurs with Alzheimer's, it can make symptoms worse and speed up decline.

Treatment and Research

There is currently no specific treatment for LATE. This highlights the need for more research and better treatments. Experts are working to understand LATE better. They hope this will lead to improved diagnosis and care for patients.

Key Differences

LATE is tricky because it can look like Alzheimer's. Patients may have memory problems that seem similar. But LATE has unique features that set it apart. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Impact on Dementia Understanding

The discovery of LATE changes what we know about dementia. It shows that cognitive decline is more complex than previously thought. This knowledge is crucial for developing better treatments and supporting patients and their families.