what is lbd

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a form of progressive dementia caused by the degeneration of tissues in the brain. It is associated with abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain, known as Lewy bodies. LBD refers to either of two related diagnoses — dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinsons disease dementia, both of which have the same underlying changes in the brain and develop similar symptoms over time. The most common symptoms of LBD include changes in thinking abilities, movement, sleep, and behavior. Visual hallucinations, Parkinson-like movement symptoms, and fluctuating effects on mental functioning are also distinguishing features of LBD. While LBD currently cannot be prevented or cured, treatments may help manage some of the symptoms. A treatment plan may involve medications, physical and other types of therapy, counseling, and home safety updates. Research is ongoing to improve the understanding of LBD, including identifying specific differences in the brain between the two types of LBD, exploring the diseases underlying biology, genetics, and environmental risk factors, and identifying biomarkers. It is important to work with a specialist familiar with the many aspects of the disease to manage LBD effectively.