genetics aspects of dementia

dementia is a syndrome encompassing many intellectual domains that can be broadly defined as an overall decline in intellectual function including difficulties with language, simple calculations, planning and judgment and motor skills as well as loss of memory. a genetic cause is identified in only a minority of patients, but patients and their family members are frequently concerned about the possible genetic basis of dementia and potential risk to relatives. genetic testing for dementia is a relatively young field and the consensus of expert guidance is that genetic testing should not be used routinely in diagnosis but that, where appropriate, patients should be referred to specialized centers for genetic counseling. we will review the main genetic causes of dementia, especially genetic aspects of stroke.