Meaning of ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

WordNet Dictionary
	Definition:		[n]  a progressive form of presenile dementia that is similar to senile dementia except that it usually starts in the 40s or 50s; first symptoms are impaired memory which is followed by impaired thought and speech and finally complete helplessness
	Synonyms:		Alzheimers, Alzheimer's
	See Also:		presenile dementia
Biology Dictionary
	Definition:		Alzheimer's disease is a form of senile dementia of unknown origin that has characteristic pathologic changes in the brain. Its onset is slow and at an earlier age than the common dementia. After onset, it progresses steadily and the pathology is more severe than the average form of senile dementia. Most studies report that this disease is responsible for the cognitive decline in about 50% of demented older adults. A progressive, neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of function and death of nerve cells in several areas of the brain leading to loss of cognitive function such as memory and language. The cause of nerve cell death is unknown. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia.