Overview
Corticobasal degeneration (CBD), also known as corticobasal syndrome, is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by a combination of movement, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. Let’s delve into the specifics:
Types of Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
- CBD can manifest in various ways, but the core features include apraxia (difficulty performing purposeful movements), dystonia (muscle contractions causing abnormal postures), rigidity, and asymmetrical cortical signs.
- Subtypes may exist based on underlying pathology, but the primary focus is on the clinical presentation.
Causes of Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
Pathological Basis:
-
- CBD is associated with abnormal tau protein accumulation in brain cells.
- The exact cause remains unclear, but genetic and environmental factors likely play a role.
Risk Factors of Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
- Age:
- CBD typically affects individuals aged 50 and older.
- No Known Genetic Predisposition:
- Unlike some other neurodegenerative diseases, no specific genetic mutations are consistently linked to CBD.
Symptoms of Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
1. Apraxia: Difficulty planning and executing purposeful movements.
2. Fever: Involuntary muscle contractions leading to abnormal postures.
3. Rigidity: Stiffness in muscles.
4. Myoclonus: Sudden, brief muscle jerks.
5. Alien-Limb Phenomenon: Feeling that a limb behaves independently.
6. Aphasia: Impaired language function.
7. Poor Response to Levodopa: A key diagnostic clue.
Preventions of Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
No Specific Preventive Measures:
-
- Due to the lack of clear causative factors, prevention strategies are limited.
Diagnosis of Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
Neuroimaging:
-
- Asymmetrical perirolandic cortical changes on brain imaging support the diagnosis.
- Advanced neuroimaging may reveal underlying pathology.
Treatment for Corticobasal degeneration (CBD)
Multidisciplinary Approach:
-
- Collaborate with a team including neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech language therapists, psychiatrists, and palliative care clinicians.
- Symptomatic management is the mainstay.
- Monitor for future protein-based treatments.
When to seek medical attention ?
Early Evaluation:
-
- If you experience any combination of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention promptly.
