Cerebrospinal fluid in the dementias

Abstract

Alzheimer disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia are the most common central nervous system disorders that cause progressive neurocognitive dysfunction and ultimately dementia. A number of biomarkers for pathologies reflecting each condition have been developed. Here, we review these and give an overview of the current state of practice and research regarding cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers for these disorders. The chapter discusses both established (most of which are tau- and amyloid β-related) and upcoming biomarkers and details, wherever appropriate, clinical use and differential diagnostics aspects.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; Biomarkers; amyloid; cerebrospinal fluid; dementia; dementia with Lewy bodies; frontotemporal dementia; tau; vascular dementia.