Pick's disease is a form of dementia characterized by a slowly progressive deterioration of social skills and changes in personality, along with impairment of intellect, memory, and language. Although the disease varies greatly in the way it affects individuals, there is a common core of symptoms among patients which may be present at different stages of the disease. These symptoms include loss of memory, lack of spontaneity, difficulty in thinking or concentrating, and disturbances of speech. Other symptoms include gradual emotional dullness, loss of moral judgment, and progressive dementia. Although the disease usually affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, the age of onset may range from 20 to 80. Patients typically have atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Some nerve cells have characteristic abnormalities when viewed under a microscope. The cause of the disease is unknown.

What research is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports research to learn more about the cause, prevention, and treatment of dementing disorders such as Pick's disease. NINDS investigators are currently conducting a pathogenetic study of Pick's disease patients. The study includes cerebral imaging with positron emission tomography, and experimental therapeutic interventions. The National Institute on Aging also conducts research relevant to Pick's disease.