Introduction to Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative disorders as a category of diseases that is characterized by the slow progressive loss of neurons within the CNS. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are very common and severe and result in moderate to severe cognitive and physical deficits. The concerning pathophysiology of these disorders is multifactorial with genetic and environmental factors joined with neuronal abnormalities that progressing to irreversible damage of the nervous tissue. The present chapter is the initial step for understanding neurodegenerative diseases; nevertheless, some general ideas about the pathophysiology of these disorders are emphasized, such as protein misfolding, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Further, it analyzes clinical manifestations, diagnosis and the existing management strategies. As the population ages, a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases are becoming more common, making the study of such conditions essential to expanding the existing knowledge and potential treatments for the diseases.