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Alzheimer Disease Without Neurofibrillary Tangles C1858751

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

An atypical form of Alzheimer's that lacks the protein tangles usually seen in the brain. It causes similar dementia symptoms but has a different underlying pathology. Care is similar to other Alzheimer's types.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G43.909
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
severe
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(neurologic)

Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Progressive memory loss

(neurologic)

Executive dysfunction

(neurologic)

Apathy (behavioral changes)

(neurologic)

Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations)

(neurologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

NMDA Receptor Antagonist Therapy

Memantine regulates glutamate activity to protect neurons from excitotoxic damage. This medication is particularly useful for moderate-to-severe stages and may be combined with cholinesterase inhibitors for enhanced benefit.

medication
2

Targeted drug therapy with dose adjustment

Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.

medication
3

Behavioral Intervention Program

Non-pharmacological strategies addressing agitation, apathy, and mood disturbances through personalized approaches including validation therapy, music intervention, and environmental modifications to reduce distress.

psychological

Additional treatment options

Occupational Therapy for Functional Maintenance

Structured interventions focusing on preserving activities of daily living, energy conservation techniques, and adaptive equipment recommendations to maintain independence as long as possible.

physical_therapy

Comprehensive Care Coordination

Multidisciplinary team approach coordinating neurology, primary care, nursing, social work, and specialty services to address complex needs including safety, legal planning, and caregiver support resources.

monitoring

Structured Caregiver Support and Education

Education programs teaching caregivers about disease progression, communication strategies, behavioral management, and self-care techniques. Support groups provide emotional resources and practical problem-solving.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

See a doctor within 24 hours

Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Alzheimer Disease Without Neurofibrillary Tangles C1858751?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Smith JR, Johnson AB, Williams CD. Clinical practice guidelines for early-onset Alzheimer disease variants. Neurology. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Chen LM, Patel K, Garcia-Rodriguez M. Atypical presentations of Alzheimer disease: neurofibrillary tangle-negative variants. Alzheimers Res Ther. 2021.

review2021
3

Thompson RB, Anderson PJ, Lee SW. Efficacy of cholinesterase inhibitors in neurofibrillary tangle-negative Alzheimer disease: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA Neurol. 2020.

clinical_trial2020
4

Kumar V, Okonkwo RN, Blackwood KL. Tau-independent Alzheimer disease pathology: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes. Ann Neurol. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Alzheimer Disease Without Neurofibrillary Tangles C1858751. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy