Sample Solution

Alzheimer’s Disease:
Pathophysiology: Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform simple tasks. It is characterised by the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain resulting in a decrease in neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain) and an increase of amyloid plaques found on neurons. These changes are responsible for problems with memory, learning, concentration and language.

Definition: Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive neurological disorder caused by damage or death of nerve cells in certain areas of the brain which affects thinking ability, behavior and emotions. It involves a gradual decline in cognitive functions such as memory and problem solving over time due to the breakdown of neuronal connections throughout various parts of the brain.

Etiology: The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is unknown; however it is thought to be related to genetic predisposition or environmental factors such as exposure to toxins or viruses. Genetic mutations may play a role as well; some studies suggest that mutations on specific genes can increase one’s risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease later on in life. Altered levels of certain chemical messengers such as serotonin may also contribute towards its development .

Risk Factors: Age is considered one of the most significant risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s Disease with individuals aged 65 years or older being more likely than others to develop it due to aging-related damage that occurs within their brains over time; other risk factors include family history (genetic predisposition), age-related health conditions (e.g., diabetes) and lifestyle choices (smoking).

Causative Factors: Research suggests that multiple abnormalities associated with aging are involved in causing Alzheimer’s including reduced penetration of glucose across cell membranes leading to impaired cell function; accumulation of beta amyloid plaque deposits outside cells which disrupt communication between neurons; aggregation of tau proteins inside cells which damages microtubules resulting in decreased transport along neurons ;and increased inflammation due to chronic oxidative stress .

Common Signs & Symptoms: Early signs include difficulty remembering recent events/conversations, personality changes (increased apathy and depressive symptoms), impaired judgement/reasoning abilities , forgetfulness about personal details like names or dates ,episodes where confusion follows reality disorientation , frequent trips/ gets lost easily , inability to complete everyday tasks , misplacement/ loss items etc .

Labs & Diagnostic Tests : Diagnosis typically begins with medical history assessment followed by labs tests such as blood tests & imaging scans like CT scan MRIscan PET scan & other scans depending on individual needs Extended neuropsychological battery testing may be performed if needed.