Lewy body
Pronunciation: LOO-ee body
Abnormal protein aggregates in brain cells characteristic of certain neurodegenerative disorders.
Full Definition
Lewy bodies are pathological protein inclusions found in neurons, composed primarily of alpha-synuclein. These abnormal aggregates are hallmark features of Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and Lewy body variant of Alzheimer's disease. In neuropsychiatric practice, Lewy body pathology is associated with specific symptom patterns including visual hallucinations, fluctuating cognition, REM sleep behavior disorder, and parkinsonism. The presence and distribution of Lewy bodies helps distinguish between neurodegenerative conditions and guides treatment decisions, though definitive diagnosis requires post-mortem examination.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Friedrich Lewy; capitalize Lewy but not body.
In Context
- "The clinical presentation suggested Lewy body pathology rather than Alzheimer's disease." — Diagnostic assessment
- "Lewy body distribution patterns correlate with specific neuropsychiatric symptoms." — Research article