Corticobasal degeneration (CBD) is a rare and progressive condition where increasing numbers of brain cells are damaged over time, and certain sections of the brain begin to shrink (neurodegeneration).
Symptoms of CBD include:
- stiffness, jerkiness, and clumsiness in one or more limbs
- mild to moderate dementia (a decline in mental abilities, such as memory, thinking, and understanding)
- increasing difficulties with speaking and swallowing
The cause of CBD is unknown.
How common is CBD?
CBD is a rare condition. In England, it is estimated that there is one new case diagnosed every year for every 100,000 people. However, this figure may underestimate the true number of those affected by CBD because many cases may have been misdiagnosed, often as stroke, or progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). PSP is a slightly more common neurodegenerative condition, which shares many of the symptoms of CBD.
Most cases of CBD affect people who are 60-80 years of age, with 67 being the average age for the onset of symptoms. CBD may be more common in women than in men, but because the condition is so rare, it is difficult to be entirely certain.
Outlook
CBD is a progressive condition, which means that the initial symptoms will become more severe over time, and that new symptoms may develop. The rate at which symptoms progress can vary widely between individuals, but people typically live for around eight years after the onset of symptoms.
People with CBD are very vulnerable to developing other complications, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal.
Research into treatments for CBD is ongoing, but there are no current treatments that can be used to cure the condition. Therefore, treatment for CBD focuses on relieving the symptoms, and ensuring that the person with the condition has the best possible quality of life.
