Alzheimer's Disease.

Use of valid diagnostic criteria is extremely important in the recognition of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease should be started on a cholinesterase inhibitor and possibly anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants (vitamin E or selegiline), and estrogen replacement therapy (for postmenopausal women). Close follow-up of functioning is needed to be able to provide symptomatic relief and possibly slow down the progression of the disease. Comorbid medical conditions as well as superimposed psychiatric disturbances should be aggressively treated. Pharmacologic interventions and environmental engineering (including support for family members) should be used throughout the course of the disease. Genetic testing is not recommended in asymptomatic family members considering the enormous potential for job and insurance discrimination.