title: [From Pick's disease to frontotemporal dementia].
abstract: Frontotemporal dementias (FTD) are defined by a gradual change in social conduct, behavior and language, associated with frontal and anterior temporal lobe degeneration. The clinicalfeatures depend on the location of the degenerative process. In the last 20 years, increasingly specific and sensitive operational criteria have been established. Ongoing neuropathological and genetic studies have highlighted overlaps between FTD, motor neuron disease, and atypical parkinsonian syndromes (supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration). They have also provided a better knowledge of the pathophysiology of FTD, and new specific therapeutic targets. These dementias, which usually occur before the age of 65 years, are now better recognized but are still underdiagnosed and often initially mistaken for psychiatric illnesses. Healthcare professionals managing these patients must therefore be better informed Serotonergic agents provide a symptomatic improvement, but environmental adaptation, prevention of language and swallowing difficulties, and information and support for the family and caregivers remain essential.
authors: Neurologie, CHRU Hôpital Salingro 59037 Lille. Florence.pasquier@chru-lille.fr
authors: Florence
authors: F
authors: Pasquier
authors: Vincent
authors: V
authors: Deramecourt
authors: Florence
authors: F
authors: Lebert
mesh_terms: D001526:Behavioral Symptoms / Q000209:etiology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D057180:Frontotemporal Dementia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D020774:Pick Disease of the Brain / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology*