Corticobasal degeneration

Corticobasal degeneration (CBD) is a rare, neurodegenerative disease involving the cerebral cortex and the basal ganglia. CBD symptoms typically begin in people between 50 and 70 years of age, and the average duration of the disease is six years. It is characterized by marked disorders in movement and cognitive dysfunction.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms of CBD are often stiffness, shakiness, jerkiness, slowness and clumsiness, usually of one limb. Other symptoms can include dysphasia (difficulty speaking), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), and difficulty controlling the muscles of the face and mouth. Some people also experience apraxia, a disorder of the nervous system in which a person is unable to perform tasks or movements when asked, even though the request or command is understood and they are willing to perform the task.

Causes

The exact cause of CBD is unknown. However, it is thought to be linked to the accumulation of a protein called tau in certain areas of the brain. This accumulation of tau forms into clumps, which are believed to damage nerve cells and cause them to die.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of CBD is difficult, as no specific diagnostic tests are available. Instead, the disease is diagnosed by its characteristic symptoms and by ruling out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. This often involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various tests such as MRI scans and PET scans.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for CBD, and no treatments have been proven to slow the progression of the disease. Treatment is focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include medications to manage specific symptoms, physical therapy to improve mobility and reduce stiffness, and speech therapy to help with speech and swallowing difficulties.

Prognosis

The progression of CBD is slow but continuous. The disease typically progresses over six to eight years, with the rate of progression varying from person to person. Most people with CBD become wheelchair-bound and eventually bedridden. Death is usually due to complications such as pneumonia or severe infection.

See also

• Parkinson's disease
• Progressive supranuclear palsy
• Tauopathy

References

Corticobasal degeneration Resources
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