Mental Health Nursing
According to the recalled notes, Alzheimer's disease is associated with a deficiency in which…
According to the recalled notes, Alzheimer's disease is associated with a deficiency in which neurotransmitter?
Explanation
Core Concept: Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline. While acetylcholine deficiency is the primary hallmark, deficits in other neurotransmitters like *serotonin* and norepinephrine also occur, contributing significantly to the neuropsychiatric symptoms (depression, agitation).
Clinical Presentation:
- Memory loss, confusion, mood swings, depression, and behavioral changes.
Diagnosis:
- *First-line:* Cognitive assessments (MMSE, MoCA).
- *Gold Standard:* Clinical diagnosis supported by PET scans (amyloid/tau) and ruling out reversible causes.
Management:
- *Acute:* Manage behavioral and mood symptoms; SSRIs may be used to address depression associated with serotonin deficits.
- *Definitive:* Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil) and NMDA receptor antagonists (memantine) for cognitive symptoms.