Indianapolis to host international conference on frontotemporal dementias

Dementia researchers and caregivers from across the globe will meet in Indianapolis Oct. 6-8 for the 7th International Conference on Frontotemporal Dementias.

The conference provides a rare opportunity for caregivers and researchers to meet and share information in a context that instills a new understanding of the complexities of this disease. Originally known as Pick's disease, frontotemporal dementia symptoms are associated with the degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The disease progresses steadily and often rapidly and treatment options remain limited.

More than 80 speakers from the United States, Canada, Germany, Italy, Sweden, England, Australia, Japan, Belgium, Argentina, Switzerland and The Netherlands will present the most relevant developments in the field. Attendees will include clinical and basic scientists, nurses, social workers and caregivers from across the globe.

Topics to be addressed by scientists include frontotemporal dementias and movement disorders, genetics and biochemistry of frontotemporal dementias, and biomarkers and therapeutic intervention. Caregiver sessions will focus on disease management, community resources, the genetics of the disease and genetic counseling.

Hosting this year's conference is Bernardino Ghetti, M.D., director of the Indiana Alzheimer's Disease Center, Distinguished Professor at Indiana University and Chancellor's Professor at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.

More information:
For more information or to register, see www.ftd2010.org/

Provided by Indiana University School of Medicine