In a study, researchers discover a possible cause of dementia symptoms: “CSF leaks”. This means they can be treated early.
Frankfurt – Dementia has now become a widespread disease. As the German Alzheimer Society informs, according to current calculations, around 1.8 million people in Germany live with the memory disorder (as of 2022). Particularly striking: the number of Patients under the age of 65 are increasing significantly.
All over the world, researchers are constantly working to elucidate various dementia diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. In a current Study a new possible cause has now been uncovered.
Dementia: CSF leaks responsible for symptoms according to study
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, a non-profit clinic in Los Angeles, found that a so-called “CSF leak” can cause symptoms of dementia. CSF describes a cerebrospinal fluid that circulates in and around the brain and protects it from injury. If this escapes into the body, this is called a liquor leak. This can next dementia symptoms can also be responsible for recurring mild to severe headaches. However, unlike dementia, the leaks can be treated effectively. According to the researchers, it is thus possible to prevent the symptoms in good time.
The study examined 21 patients diagnosed with incurable behavioral frontotemporal dementia. The disease increasingly robs those affected of the ability to control their behavior and cope with everyday life. The results were published in the journal Alzheimer‘s & Dementia released.
According to these, cerebrospinal fluid leaks were discovered in nine of those affected using computed tomography (CT) and then surgically closed. According to the researchers, the symptoms then decreased. No leaks could be found in the other 12 study participants. In order to alleviate their symptoms, they were finally treated with targeted therapies. However, this was only successful for three people.
Dementia study shows: CSF leaks can be cured
For the researchers, finding out about CSF leaks as a possible trigger for dementia represents major progress: “[…] our study shows that patients with CSF leaks can be cured if we can find the source of the leak,” said Dr. Wouter Schievink, Professor of Neurosurgery at Cedars-Sinai, according to the journal.
Note from the editor
The information given in this article does not replace a visit to a doctor. Only experts can make the right diagnosis and initiate appropriate therapy. The intake of medication or dietary supplements should be discussed with a doctor beforehand.
CSF leaks can be seen in CT and MRI scans. According to the expert, people with regularly occurring mild to severe headaches or even the initial symptoms of dementia should therefore be examined thoroughly. However, further research is needed in the field. “Great efforts must be made to improve the detection rate of CSF leaks in these patients,” said Schievink. Thus, the memory disorder can be prevented prematurely for a certain number of those affected.
about that To reduce the risk of dementia, you should also ensure you get enough exercise be set. (asc)