Knowledge,attitude,and practice of neurologists toward primary progressive aphasia in Indonesia

Abstract

Background

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a neurodegenerative syndrome that impairs language and speech abilities. Limited research exists on PPA in Indonesia, and understanding neurologists’ perspectives is crucial for improving early diagnosis and management.

Objective

This study aimed to assess Indonesian neurologists’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding PPA.

Methods

Indonesian neurologists were invited to complete an online questionnaire covering demographics, clinical experiences, understanding of PPA variants and treatments, attitudes toward diagnosis, and current clinical practices.

Results

A total of 192 neurologists completed the survey, predominantly aged 31–40 years (53.15%) with over five years of experience (61.5%). Many reported limited experience with PPA: with 43.8% had never encountered progressive language impairment, and 81.3% had not diagnosed PPA. While knowledge of PPA symptoms and variants was strong, gaps remained, particularly in specific clinical features. Participants recognized the importance of comprehensive assessments and multidisciplinary care, but inconsistencies in evaluations and referrals revealed a gap between knowledge and practice.

Conclusions

While Indonesian neurologists have a foundational understanding of PPA, there are significant gaps in recognizing variant-specific features, assessment methods, and referral pathways. Addressing these gaps through targeted education and improved diagnostic tools is essential for enhancing patient care.