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Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Sophia M. Farley, MMS, PA-C
Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative condition marked by progressive deterioration of behavior, language, and motor function due to atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes. It is the most common cause of dementia in individuals under the age of 65, yet it often goes unrecognized, particularly in its early stages. FTD includes several clinical subtypes, such as behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD), semantic variant primary progressive aphasia (svPPA), non-fluent variant primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA), and FTD associated with motor neuron disease (FTD-MND). These presentations frequently resemble psychiatric illnesses, making early and accurate diagnosis a challenge. While neurologists typically confirm the diagnosis, physician assistants are essential to the early identification and management of FTD. This paper aims to enhance awareness of FTD’s clinical variants, underlying pathology, and available biomarkers, and to provide practical strategies for distinguishing FTD from psychiatric disorders. Additionally, it explores both lifestyle and pharmacological interventions that may support patient care. By addressing common diagnostic pitfalls and treatment considerations, this review seeks to empower physician assistants with the knowledge needed to improve outcomes for patients affected by FTD.
Recommended Citation
Dagher, Gabriella, "Approach to the Diagnosis and Treatment of Frontotemporal Dementia" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 30.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pa/30
Approach to the Diagnosis and Treatment of Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative condition marked by progressive deterioration of behavior, language, and motor function due to atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes. It is the most common cause of dementia in individuals under the age of 65, yet it often goes unrecognized, particularly in its early stages. FTD includes several clinical subtypes, such as behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD), semantic variant primary progressive aphasia (svPPA), non-fluent variant primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA), and FTD associated with motor neuron disease (FTD-MND). These presentations frequently resemble psychiatric illnesses, making early and accurate diagnosis a challenge. While neurologists typically confirm the diagnosis, physician assistants are essential to the early identification and management of FTD. This paper aims to enhance awareness of FTD’s clinical variants, underlying pathology, and available biomarkers, and to provide practical strategies for distinguishing FTD from psychiatric disorders. Additionally, it explores both lifestyle and pharmacological interventions that may support patient care. By addressing common diagnostic pitfalls and treatment considerations, this review seeks to empower physician assistants with the knowledge needed to improve outcomes for patients affected by FTD.