$Unique_ID{BRK02057}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What to Expect from Pick's Disease}
$Subject{Pick's Disease degenerative disease hereditary disease dementias
dementia atrophy of the brain temporal lobe frontal lobe Alzheimer's Disease
aging inherited}
$Volume{}
$Log{
Areas of the Brain*0002202.scf
The Brain Viewed From Below*0002303.scf
Posterior Cross Section of the Brain*0002402.scf}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What to Expect from Pick's Disease


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QUESTION:  I am writing to you on behalf of my Grandmother.  She would like to
know if you have any information regarding Pick's Disease.  Her son, my uncle,
is afflicted with the illness.  He is 60 years old, and has been diagnosed by
an M.R.I. scan.  He has lost most of his speech, and despite medications,
seems to be going down hill rapidly.  I could not find it in any of my medical
books, and my Grandmother feels if they knew more about this disease his
family would be better able to help him.  Thank you.

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ANSWER:  This disease is found under the classification of Degenerative and
Hereditary Diseases in some texts, and is one of the many dementias described
in the literature.  Dementias as a group incapacitate more than a million
Americans, and there is little affective treatment available.
     Pick's Disease was first described by Dr. Arnold Pick in a German
psychiatric publication in 1908, and except for improved methods of
diagnosis, there has been little advancement in its treatment.
     It affects both sexes equally, and is seen first as they enter their 50's
or 60's.  There is a gradual atrophy of the brain, the temporal and frontal
lobes most frequently affected, and with it a loss of the ability to speak, or
recognize language.  The disease is clinically very similar to Alzheimer's
Disease, and is often mistaken for it in the initial stages.  The causes are
also unknown, but there may be a genetic link involved.
     Without a specific medication available, treatment tends to be more
supportive and directed at reducing the intensity of any symptoms, and to help
maintain nutrition and comfort.  Often the task becomes too great for a
family, and the patient must be cared for in an institution that has the
facilities and experience to deal with the problems.  The disease is
progressive, finally leading to death.  The family members should not only be
concerned about your uncle's illness, but also of each other, lending strength
to all and gaining strength from the caring and love that is shared by all.
In that manner, they will be able to continue caring for your uncle in the
best manner possible.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.