Fact 8. DLB and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Complex Intersection
DLB and Alzheimer’s disease, while distinct entities, share a complex intersection. In many DLB patients, Alzheimer’s pathology can be found, blurring the lines between these two conditions. This overlap has implications for diagnosis, management, and research.
In terms of diagnosis, the presence of Alzheimer’s pathology can lead to a misdiagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, especially if the distinctive symptoms of DLB are not pronounced. Therefore, clinicians need to be cognizant of this overlap and maintain a high index of suspicion for DLB, especially in the presence of symptoms like cognitive fluctuations and visual hallucinations.
From a management perspective, the overlap with Alzheimer’s disease can add another layer of complexity to DLB treatment. The co-existence of Alzheimer’s pathology can further accelerate cognitive decline and contribute to behavioral symptoms.
Therefore, management strategies need to address not just the primary DLB symptoms but also the accompanying Alzheimer’s pathology. This dual focus can include cholinesterase inhibitors to enhance cognitive function and non-pharmacological strategies to manage behavioral symptoms. (8)
