Childhood Dementia: An Entirely Different Class of Dementia We Know Almost Nothing About : The Hearty Soul

Dementia is not limited to affecting seniors; it can also occur in children due to rare genetic conditions. The symptoms of childhood dementia, such as memory loss, confusion, and communication difficulties, are devastating and progressively worsen over time.

What Causes Childhood Dementia?

Childhood dementia can result from mutations in a child’s DNA, leading to rare genetic conditions. For example, “inborn errors of metabolism” can hinder nutrient processing in the body, causing cognitive decline.

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Causes and Underlying Conditions

Other disorders that can cause childhood dementia include lysosomal disorders, mitochondrial disorders, mucopolysaccharidoses, and more. Around 1 in every 2,900 babies is born with one of these rare genetic conditions.

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Signs and Symptoms

Childhood dementia shares symptoms with adult dementia, including cognitive decline, behavioral changes, seizures, and difficulties with sleep, vision, and hearing. Children may progressively lose their abilities, such as walking and talking.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for childhood dementia. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, which may involve medications and therapy to address behavioral changes and cognitive decline.

Prognosis and Future Research

Tragically, many children diagnosed with childhood dementia pass away before reaching adulthood. Research on this type of dementia is limited, but efforts are being made to develop better treatments and support networks for affected families.

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