On Corticobasal Degeneration
Corticobasal degeneration (CBD) is a generative disorder of the brain in which nerve cells die over time, causing a progressive decline in the ability to move on or both sides of the body. This neurological disorder shares many symptoms with Parkinson’s disease.
Symptoms typically occur after the age of 60, and generally begin with clumsiness and slowness of a limb on one side of the body. As the disease progresses, symptoms which appeared on only one side of the body may begin to affect both sides. Symptoms which indicate disorder progression include myoclonus (jerkiness of a limb), difficulty controlling a limb that seems to move on its own, difficulty with speech generation and articulation, problems swallowing, difficulty walking, abnormal muscle postures, loss of ability to make familiar and purposeful movements, an absence of movement, rigidity, cognitive and behavioral problems and sensory loss.
Patients suffering from corticobasal degeneration will be diagnosed based on the severity of symptoms. They may be required to take numerous tests, such as mental status and neuropsychological assessments, speech and language assessments, psychiatric tests, blood tests, head scans such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and others, depending on the results of previous tests. Other tests include an electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram (EMG), urine tests, and tests on the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained by a lumbar puncture.
Currently, there is no found cure for corticobasal degeneration. However, several medications and many non-medication approaches have been created to improve daily functioning and quality of life. A coordinated approach to treatment options is key to effective management.
Many patients suffering from corticobasal degeneration can often benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy.
