Working for a world free of PSP & CBD Registered charity numbers: England and Wales / Scotland SC041199

Cortico Basal Degeneration (CBD) is a degenerative brain disease, affecting people from the age of 40 onwards. Cortico - affecting the brain cortex Basal - also affecting other parts of the brain such as the basal ganglia Degeneration - death of nerve cells in the brain What is CBD?

CBD is associated with an over-production of a protein called tau in certain areas of the brain. In CBD, it forms into clumps – or neurofibrillary tangles – which are believed to damage nerve cells. Currently there has been no research into the prevalence of CBD but we do know that it is much less common than PSP. What Causes CBD?

Signs and Symptoms CBD often starts with progressive numbness and loss of use of one hand. There can also be jerking of the fingers, slowness and awkwardness and the feeling of having an ‘alien limb’ – with complex unintentional movements of one limb causing problems with normal motor tasks. Gradually the arm and/or leg on one side is affected and then the arm and/or leg on the other.

Signs and Symptoms - continued People with CBD often have trouble controlling one hand when doing everyday things such as writing or tying shoelaces – tasks that involve individual muscle movements we take for granted. Eye movements can also be disturbed but these are normally less debilitating than in PSP. For more information on managing these symptoms visit the Managing Symptoms page of our website

Like PSP, there are no simple tests or brain scans for CBD which can help neurologists diagnose the condition. CBD is often initially misdiagnosed as a stroke or Parkinson’s disease. The average life expectancy is around seven years from onset. However, every case is different – there is considerable variation in the symptoms and rate of progression in individuals. Diagnosis

Treatments and Therapies At the moment there is no treatment to stop or slow the progression of CBD. However, many symptoms can be treated and there are many therapies that can help manage symptoms. People with CBD should see their neurologist and palliative care team on a regular basis. Hopefully, in the future, research will lead to new treatments to stop or at least slow down the progression of the condition.

Contact Us The PSP Association - Supporting those with PSP & CBD telephone helpline: helpline: