ALZHEIMER’S THREAT: Scientists believe to have discovered new form of dementia

SCIENTISTS believe they have discovered a new form of dementia which ‘mimics’ the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

The condition, known as LATE, is thought to affect about one in five elderly people, according to a new report.

The major study found a large portion of patients over 80 thought to have been suffering from Alzheimer’s could in fact have LATE, a condition which may need alternative treatment.  Symptoms for the two diseases are very similar, and include memory problems, mood issues, and cognitive decline, however LATE develops more slowly.

Director of the US National Institute on Aging and co-chair of the review Nina Silverberg said: “Recent research and clinical trials in Alzheimer’s disease have taught us not all of the people we thought had Alzheimer’s have it.”