The Prevalence of the Frontal Lobe Syndrome in a population-based sample of 65 year olds: Preliminary Results from the Great-Age Study (P6.197)

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and phenotypic characteristics of frontal lobe syndrome (FLS) among the elderly (>65y) in a population based study. Background: The FLS can be characterized by a wide spectrum of symptoms grouped in three domains: executive functions, behavioral and social cognition (i.e., empathy and theory of mind deficits). A FLS is reported in numerous neurobehavioral conditions such as Frontotemporal lobar degeneration and other dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease. Design/Methods: The Great-Age Study is an ongoing population-based study on aging, conducted in Castellana Grotte (Southern Italy). Subjects underwent multidisciplinary assessment. In particular, neuropsychological examination included the Frontal Behavior Inventory (FBI) for detecting behavioral symptoms, and standardized tests for executive functions and social cognition. The FLS was defined using two algorithms: 1-broad (presence of dysfunction in at least 1 domain); 2-narrow (presence of behavioral symptoms – FBI > 11 – PLUS executive dysfunction OR social cognition deficits). Results: We evaluated a sample of 112 subjects (57 males, 55 females, mean age of 70.52 ± 4.89; 8.27 ± 3.79 mean years of school education). The FLS was present in the 36% of subjects using the broad algorithm and in the 7% using the narrow algorithm. Considering the single components 8% presented a behavioral dysfunction, 14% social cognition deficit and 36% at least one deficit of executive functions. Conclusions: These preliminary results showed that the FLS, if investigated in all its components, is quite frequent phenotype among the elderly. Study Supported by: This study was supported by AIRAlzh Onlus - COOP Italia and realized with the financial support of the Puglia Region. Disclosure: Dr. Battista has nothing to disclose. Dr. Piccininni has nothing to disclose. Dr. Barulli has nothing to disclose. Dr. Griseta has nothing to disclose. Dr. Grasso has nothing to disclose. Dr. Di dio has nothing to disclose. Dr. Stallone has nothing to disclose. Dr. Capozzo has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lozupone has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sardone has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tortelli has nothing to disclose. Dr. Panza has nothing to disclose. Dr. Logroscino has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Lilly.