Dementia with Lewy bodies
Dementia with Lewy bodies
Dementia with Lewy bodies is a brain disease that causes progressive loss of memory and the ability to think and plan. It is associated with protein deposits called Lewy bodies in brain cells.
The main symptoms of dementia with Lewy bodies are:
- Fluctuating attention and alertness (the person may be alert and then suddenly confused).
- Visual-spatial problems (can't find his or her way around usually familiar places).
- Visual hallucinations that are vivid and detailed.
- Loss of ability to recall long-term memories.
- Repeated falls.
Some symptoms of dementia with Lewy bodies are similar to those of other brain diseases, such as loss of short-term memory or a shuffling walk. Some people may have "Lewy body variant," a combination of Lewy bodies and Alzheimer's disease.
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 25, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.




