Experts discuss specific diagnosis and brain modulation in Alzheimer’s care

“Treatable conditions can masquerade as Alzheimer’s disease, including autoimmune disorders and thyroid inflammation,” said Ennapadam S. Krishnamoorthy, founder and behavioural neurologist and neuropsychiatrist, Buddhi Clinic, stressing the importance of a specific diagnosis in people presenting with cognitive symptoms.

He was speaking at The Hindu Wellness Series webinar on Alzheimer’s dementia and the promise of brain stimulation, held on Sunday by The Hindu in association with Buddhi Clinic, marking World Alzheimer’s Day.

Dr. Krishnamoorthy said a detailed, case-based assessment was important to distinguish Alzheimer’s disease from other conditions that can cause cognitive symptoms and may be treatable. He also stressed the need to tailor care to the individual, noting that some medications may offer limited benefits or cause harm in certain patients. He said non-pharmacological interventions also had an important role in dementia care.