BACKGROUND: Early onset Alzheimer's type dementia (EOAD) is usually familial and 
associated with mutations in the Presenilin-1 (PSEN1), Presenilin-2 (PSEN2) or 
amyloid precursor protein (APP) genes. It is rarely reported in patients of 
Hispanic descent.
CASE REPORT: A 49-year-old Hispanic male developed significant cognitive 
impairment over a 4-year period. PET scan showed diminished metabolic activity 
in the posterior parietal/temporal lobes. Genetic testing revealed the presence 
of a PSEN1 gene mutation.
CONCLUSION: Disparities in health care may account for an under-recognition of 
EOAD in the Hispanic population. Clinicians should test for EOAD in all patients 
with appropriate symptomatology, regardless of ethnicity. Early recognition and 
enrollment in clinical trials is vital to enhancing our understanding of the 
natural history and treatment of this condition.