LEWY BODY Meaning and
Definition
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Lewy body refers to an abnormal protein aggregate found in the brain, specifically in nerve cells. It is named after Fritz Heinrich Lewy, a pioneering neurologist of the early 20th century who extensively researched and described this characteristic pathology. Lewy bodies are primarily composed of a protein called alpha-synuclein. These spherical protein clumps build up inside nerve cells, disrupting their normal functioning and communication.
The formation of Lewy bodies is associated with various neurodegenerative disorders, most notably Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). In PD, Lewy bodies tend to accumulate primarily in the substantia nigra, a region of the brain responsible for controlling movement. This accumulation leads to the death of nerve cells, resulting in the motor symptoms seen in PD, such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulties with movement.
In DLB, the presence of Lewy bodies is more widespread, with distribution throughout the cerebral cortex, limbic system, and brainstem. As a result, the clinical manifestation includes not only motor symptoms but also cognitive decline and psychiatric disturbances, such as hallucinations and fluctuations in alertness.
The identification and analysis of Lewy bodies through microscopic examination of brain tissue is one of the key diagnostic criteria for both Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. However, advances in imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET), are also providing non-invasive means to visualize and detect Lewy bodies in living patients, aiding in earlier diagnosis and improved understanding of these neurodegenerative disorders.
Common Misspellings for LEWY BODY
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Etymology of LEWY BODY
The term "Lewy body" is named after the German neurologist Friedrich H. Lewy (1885-1950) who first described abnormal protein deposits found in the brains of individuals with Parkinson's disease. In 1912, Lewy published a paper that identified these protein aggregates, later known as Lewy bodies, in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. These protein clumps consist primarily of a protein called alpha-synuclein, which is believed to play a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Lewy body dementia. Consequently, the term "Lewy body" is used to describe the characteristic protein deposits observed in these disorders, honoring Dr. Lewy's contribution to the understanding of Parkinson's disease and related conditions.
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