Recently, much progress has been made in the understanding of the biology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other causes of dementia. Health care providers are continually improving their ability to differentiate among the causes of dementia, distinctions that can have significant implications with regards to prognosis, treatment, and risk to patients’ progeny. It is now well established that the pathological processes leading to the development of dementia are underway years, if not decades, prior to their clinical manifestation. Though much progress remains to be made with the treatment of AD and other causes of dementia, the recognition of the prodromal phase provides opportunity to prevent the development of overt symptoms. 

This course provides a didactic, evidence-based, review of the different diagnosis and treatment of the most common forms of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia. The morning session updates attendees on the pathobiology of AD and other dementias. In the afternoon, we will present evidence regarding dementia prevention and the treatment of cognitive and behavioral symptoms, concluding with discussions of ongoing studies of both symptomatic and potentially disease-modifying interventions. 

 EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Comprehend the latest evidence regarding the biological causes of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
• Differentiate among causes of dementia and describe clinical circumstances where CSF examination, FDG PET, amyloid and tau PET scanning may be indicated.
• Recognize the purpose and indications for and limitations of upcoming blood tests for AD.
• Identify the current indication for and limitations of genetic testing in persons with neurodegenerative dementias.
• Counsel patients and families on evidence-based treatments for cognitive and behavioral symptoms of dementia.
• Prescribe medications and address life-style changes to reduce vascular risk.
• Refer interested persons for a clinical trial.

ACCREDITATION

The Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California designates this Live Activity activity for a maximum of 7.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.  Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

For more information please visit the official event page.