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Performance on Neuropsychological Tests Related to Single Photon Emission Computerised Tomography Findings in Frontotemporal Dementia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

Christina I. Elfgren*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychogeriatrics, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
Erik Ryding
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
Ulla Passant
Affiliation:
Department of Psychogeriatrics, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
*
Christina I. Elfgren, msc, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Department of Psychogeriatrics, University Hospital, PO Box 638, S-22009 Lund, Sweden

Abstract

Background

This study examines relations between regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and neuropsychological test results, age at onset and duration of disease in patients with frontotemporal-type dementia (FTD).

Method

Sixteen patients with a diagnosis of probable FTD were examined using single photon emission computerised tomography (SPECT) with 99mTc-HMPAO as the tracer. The rCBF of 14 regions of interest relative to cerebellar blood flow was calculated. Psychological tests assessing language, verbal fluency, memory and visuospatial constructive ability were given.

Results

Correlations were demonstrated between a global impairment score and relative blood flow in lateral frontal, medial frontal and left orbital frontal areas. Verbal fluency scores correlated with left lateral frontal medial frontal and left anterior inferior temporal blood flow. No relationships between decrease in CBF and age at onset or duration of disease, or between impaired cognitive function and age at onset or duration of disease, were found.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates a close coupling between reduced rCBF and specific neuropsychological deficits in FTD.

Type
Papers
Copyright
Copyright © 1996 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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