Chronic dementing conditions, genomics, and new opportunities for nursing interventions.
OBJECTIVE
To (a) provide an overview of chronic dementing conditions; (b) discuss the etiologic and clinical characteristics of Alzheimer disease (AD) and Parkinson disease (PD) within the framework of the family systems genetic illness model; and (c) to explore opportunities to enhance outcomes through the integration of genomics information and technologies into nursing practice.


METHODS
An integrated review of the literature, including the organizing construct of the family systems genetic illness model.


RESULTS
AD and PD are both influenced by genetic and environmental factors; in a small percentage of families, gene mutations are the primary etiologic factor. Genetic testing is an option for some families experiencing early-onset, familial disease. Presymptomatic and diagnostic genetic testing have limited clinical utility for the more common late-onset AD and PD.


CONCLUSIONS
The current abilities of healthcare professionals to effectively intervene in people with AD and PD are limited by an incomplete understanding of the biologic basis of these diseases. Advances in genomics research and technology are providing the information and tools necessary to understand the molecular basis of these devastating disorders toward the goal of more specific and effective interventions.
Schutte
Debra L
DL
The University of Iowa College of Nursing, Room 484NB, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. debra-schutte@uiowa.edu
Holston
Ezra C
EC
D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000235:genetics / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003704:Dementia / Q000235:genetics / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006801:Humans; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000235:genetics / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors