Is primary progressive aphasia a form of dementia?

Yes, primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is considered a form of dementia. PPA is a neurological syndrome that primarily affects language abilities, and it is characterized by a progressive loss of language function over time. Individuals with PPA experience difficulty with language expression, comprehension, and/or word-finding.

Dementia is a broad term used to describe a set of symptoms that includes memory loss and a decline in cognitive abilities that is severe enough to interfere with daily life. PPA fits within the broader category of dementia because it involves a progressive deterioration of cognitive functions, specifically in the domain of language.

It's important to note that while PPA is a form of dementia, not all types of dementia primarily affect language. Alzheimer's disease, for example, is another common form of dementia that typically involves memory loss as a prominent early symptom. Each form of dementia may have distinct characteristics and patterns of cognitive decline.