Which type of dementia is characterized by the buildup of plaque in the brain and a decline in cognition?

The type of dementia characterized by the buildup of plaque in the brain and a decline in cognition is Alzheimer's disease. In Alzheimer’s disease, amyloid plaques accumulate between neurons, disrupting communication and ultimately leading to neuronal death. This process correlates with the cognitive decline that is a hallmark symptom of the condition.

In contrast, vascular dementia is primarily due to reduced blood flow to the brain, often following strokes, and is associated with different cognitive deficits that stem from vascular issues. Frontotemporal dementia involves degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which affects personality, behavior, and language capabilities rather than producing significant plaque. Lewy body dementia is characterized by abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) that affect movement and cognition but do not typically involve the same amyloid plaque buildup seen in Alzheimer's disease. Thus, Alzheimer's disease is distinct in its association with these specific pathological features and cognitive decline.