Which disease is characterized by progressive dementia and personality changes due to Pick bodies?

The disease characterized by progressive dementia and personality changes due to the presence of Pick bodies is Pick's disease, which is a specific type of frontotemporal dementia. Pick bodies are abnormal aggregates of protein found in the neurons of individuals with this condition, particularly composed of tau protein.

Pick's disease primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. This can lead to significant changes in personality and social behavior, as well as difficulties with executive function and language. Early symptoms often include apathy, disinhibition, and changes in social conduct, which can precede the cognitive decline characteristic of dementia.

While frontotemporal dementia encompasses a range of disorders that can include similar manifestations and may also feature the presence of Pick bodies, Pick's disease is specifically denoted for its distinct neuropathological findings. Thus, recognizing Pick bodies is integral in diagnosing this type of dementia.