Lewy body dementia is a type of progressive dementia that is caused by the abnormal accumulation of Lewy bodies in the brain, which can affect the brain in many different ways. The primary brain region affected in Lewy body dementia is the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions such as planning, decision-making, problem solving, and controlling behavior. It is also responsible for higher-level cognitive functions such as abstract thinking, creativity, and verbal fluency.
The temporal and parietal lobes are also affected in Lewy body dementia, which can lead to deficits in memory, language, and visual-spatial processing. The hippocampus is also affected, leading to a decline in the ability to form new memories. Additionally, the occipital lobe may be affected, leading to visual disturbances such as hallucinations and illusions. Other areas of the brain that are affected include the amygdala, which is responsible for emotions, and the basal ganglia, which are responsible for motor coordination and movement.
The Lewy bodies themselves are composed of a protein called alpha-synuclein, which accumulates in the brain cells and disrupts their normal functioning. This can lead to a wide range of neurological and behavioral symptoms, including confusion, memory loss, difficulty in concentration, visual disturbances, difficulty in walking, tremors, and difficulty in speaking.
Lewy body dementia is a progressive and degenerative disease, meaning that it will continue to worsen over time. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease, but medications can be used to reduce the symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.