UK's youngest dementia sufferer dies at 24 after scan showed he had the brain of a pensioner

Andre Yarham, 24, who was diagnosed with frontotemporal early-onset dementia after scans showed frontal lobe atrophy, died on December 27; his family have donated his brain to research.

Andre Yarham, aged 24, has died after a period of rapid decline linked to early-onset frontotemporal dementia. He passed away on December 27 at a hospice following an infection. An MRI in 2023 showed frontal lobe atrophy and a consultant said his brain resembled that of a 70-year-old. His family have chosen to donate his brain to medical research. Key details: - Age and diagnosis: Andre was 24 and was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia caused by a protein mutation shortly before his 23rd birthday. - Scan finding: An MRI in 2023 showed frontal lobe shrinkage and was reported as looking similar to a 70-year-old brain. - Course and death: He experienced a rapid decline in mobility and communication and died on December 27 at Priscilla Bacon Lodge hospice after an infection. - Family actions and next steps: His family donated his brain to Addenbrooke's Hospital for research, and his funeral is scheduled at Breckland Crematorium on January 27. Summary: The case highlights a rare instance of very early-onset dementia and a rapid progression in a young adult. The family has donated his brain to support medical research and funeral arrangements are set for January 27.