Many volumes are dedicated to studies of memory, which might be considered the essence of the rich tapestry of life. Some volumes describe normal memory, others disordered memory. This book is designed to fill a gap by focusing specifically on memory in neurodegenerative conditions. The explosion of neuroscience research dealing with this topic has left many seeking a single source which might familiarize them with the basics of research outside their own area of expertise. Although no book can be everything to everyone, and cover every relevant topic, this book attempts to bring together biological, cognitive and clinical perspectives, so that neuropsychologists, neurologists, psychiatrists and neuroscientists can familiarize themselves with allied research outside their immediate area of expertise. An effort is made to present research of recent and emerging interest, for example, preclinical detection of dementia, the description of prospective memory and the renaissance of surgery for movement disorders due to neurodegenerative processes. Often neglected topics, such as ethical and legal issues, are also addressed.

I thank my wife, Kristy Straits-Tröster, for her immense patience and understanding while bearing countless solitary hours during the completion of this project. My parents, Guy and Christine Tröster, continue to understand that work load sometimes necessitates putting up with an ‘alien’ son, and their understanding and inspiration is, as always, greatly appreciated.

The invaluable assistance of Julie Fields in the completion of this volume is most gratefully acknowledged, as is the encouragement and support of Dr Richard Barling, Director of Medical Publishing at Cambridge University Press, who demonstrated great faith in taking on this project.