Exploring frontotemporal dementia through a case report: An emerging public health concern in disguise

Abstract

Dementia has been declared by the World Health Organization as a significant public health problem around the world. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a lesser known, yet the second most common type of dementia among older adults under the age of 65 years. Age of onset in FTD is around late fifties, which is not typical for a diagnosis of dementia. In dementia, it is common to see psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions as initial presentations. However, FTD may mimic mood disorders. Unfortunately, there are no definitive treatments or ways to prevent FTD. Additionally, challenges such as an earlier age of onset, delay in diagnosis, and difficulties with placement in nursing homes may be encountered while treating FTD patients. Here, we explore FTD through the case of a 61-year-old Caucasian female who initially presented with suicidal ideations.

Keywords

• Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
• irrational behavior
• mood disorders
• public health