After announcing his retirement in March 2022 due to a speech disorder called aphasia, Bruce Willis, 67, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, his family announced on Thursday (16).
“Since we announced Bruce’s aphasia diagnosis in the spring of 2022, his condition has progressed,” the family said in a statement. “Unfortunately, communication problems are just one symptom of the disease that Bruce is facing. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.”
What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, is a disorder caused by the accumulation of a protein called tau and other cell-destroying proteins in the frontal lobes of the brain (behind the forehead) or in the temporal lobes (behind the ears). The condition typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 64, according to Alzheimer’s Research UK.
“The most common dementia for people under 60, FTD can cause difficulties in communication, as well as changes in behavior, personality, or a person’s movements,” according to a statement from the Frontotemporal Dementia Association.
People with FTD typically live six to eight years with the disease, according to the U.S. National Institute on Aging. Between 10% and 30% of FTD cases are inherited. Aside from genetics, there are no other known risk factors, although researchers are investigating the role that the thyroid and insulin may play in the onset of the disease.
What are the existing types of FTD?
Since his symptoms began with difficulty speaking, Bruce Willis would be classified as having a type of FTD called primary progressive aphasia.
But there are two other types of FTD. The behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia, or bvFTD, which is characterized by changes in executive functions, thinking, and planning. The other type affects motor neurons and may present through the inability to swallow, stiff muscles, and difficulty using the hands or arms to perform simple movements.
What are the symptoms of FTD?
In primary progressive aphasia, a person may have trouble speaking or understanding words or may slur their speech. Over time, they may stop recognizing familiar faces and objects. Some may become mute.
In behavioral FTD, people rarely have memory problems. Instead, they struggle to plan and sequence their thoughts and have trouble setting priorities.
Motor neuron FTD disorders may not affect memory, cognition, language, or behavior, especially in the early stages. Early signs may include an inability to control movements or problems with balance and walking.
How is FTD diagnosed?
A neurologist will conduct a careful clinical examination, combined with psychological tests designed to assess cognitive abilities. Alongside this, brain MRI, blood tests, and CT scans are also performed.
How is FTD treated?
Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, there are currently no therapies to slow the progression of FTD. Doctors may try to improve the patient’s quality of life by prescribing medications to reduce agitation, irritability, or depression.
A speech therapist can help determine the best strategies and tools for an FTD patient struggling with language skills. Physical therapy or occupational therapy, guided by a doctor specialized in these disorders, can help with movement symptoms.
Source: CNN