[Early onset dementia]

Abstract

Background: It is estimated that 1,200 people under the age of 65 have been diagnosed with dementia in Norway. This article provides an overview of the types of dementia frequently seen in younger patients.

Material and methods: The article is based on a non-systematic search in PubMed, as well as the authors' own clinical and research experience.

Results: Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies, are the most common types of dementia occurring more often in younger than in older patients. The cognitive symptoms are more variable in younger patients than in older. Only a small percentage of early onset dementia is caused by genetic factors. There are few diagnostic tools available for this age group and it takes considerable time to reach a correct diagnosis. Early diagnosis allows the patient and carer to plan for the future.

Interpretation: Physicians should be aware that dementia can occur in younger people, and more diagnostic assessments should be developed for this patient group. Better coordination from the public health authority and municipalities is needed to provide respite care for early onset dementia patients and their carers.