Rochester, Minnesota – Scientists at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota have uncovered a new form of memory loss called Limbic-predominant amnestic neurodegenerative syndrome (LANS). This syndrome affects the limbic system of the brain, responsible for regulating emotions and behavior. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, LANS progresses at a slower rate and carries a more positive prognosis, according to a press release from the Mayo Clinic.
The researchers analyzed data from over 200 patients from various sources to develop criteria for diagnosing LANS. These criteria include factors such as age, brain scans, memory loss symptoms, and specific biological markers. Previously, the only way to diagnose this syndrome was through post-mortem analysis of brain tissue.
The study, published in the journal Brain Communications, aims to provide a structured framework that clinicians can utilize to better care for patients with LANS. Dr. David T. Jones, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic and the senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of these diagnostic criteria in distinguishing LANS from Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Jones highlighted the significance of the research, stating that it provides clarity in cases where memory loss is not typical for Alzheimer’s disease. The identification of LANS allows for more personalized therapies tailored to manage cognitive symptoms in affected individuals.
Nick Corriveau-Lecavalier, PhD, the lead author of the study, explained the distinctions between LANS and Alzheimer’s disease. While individuals in their 80s with memory problems are often associated with Alzheimer’s, LANS typically occurs later in life and primarily affects memory without impacting other cognitive functions.
The ultimate goal of this research is to enable healthcare providers to offer individualized care to patients with LANS. By understanding the unique characteristics of this syndrome, doctors can deliver more effective treatments and support for those affected.
Rebecca M. Edelmayer, PhD, from the Alzheimer’s Association in Chicago, commended the study for its contribution to developing objective criteria for diagnosing and staging different forms of dementia. The research was partially funded by the National Institutes of Health, indicating the significance of this work in advancing our understanding of memory disorders.