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Multi-Infarct Dementia vs. Alzheimer's

Multi infarct dementia and Alzheimer's both produce symptoms of memory loss, confusion and inappropriate behavior. The causes for these two diseases are very different, however, and should be treated as such.

  1. Multi Infarct Dementia

    • Multi infarct dementia is caused by multiple strokes reducing blood supply to the brain. Symptoms include confusion, short term memory loss, wandering, loss of bowel or bladder control and walking with rapid, shuffling steps. Diagnosis occurs with a brain MRI or CT scan.

    Alzheimer's

    • According to the Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disease that destroys brain cells. Symptoms are similar to multi infarct dementia and include memory loss, confusion, spatial recognition difficulty and personality changes.

    Multi Infarct Dementia Treatment

    • Treatment focuses on prevention of future strokes. Damage to the brain caused by a stroke is irreversible.

    Alzheimer's Treatment

    • There are several drugs available to help slow the progression of this disease and overcome emotional difficulties. There is nothing available to halt this disease.

    Multi Infarct Dementia Prognosis

    • Prognosis for this disease is poor. Death generally occurs due to stroke, pneumonia, heart disease or infection.

    Alzheimer's Prognosis

    • Alzheimer's disease produces a gradual decline in cognitive and functioning abilities and results in death. The duration of this disease is three to twenty years.

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