Corticobasal Degeneration

Corticobasal degeneration is characterized by the break down (degeneration) of parts of the brain, including the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. The cerebral cortex is responsible for most of the brain's processing of information, and the basal ganglia are deep brain structures that help start and control movement. Signs and symptoms of corticobasal degeneration include poor coordination, loss of movement, rigidity, poor balance, unnatural posturing of the muscles, intellectual (cognitive) impairment, speech impairment, muscular jerks, and difficulty swallowing. These symptoms develop and worsen over time. Currently the cause of corticobasal degeneration is not known. Treatment depends on the symptoms in each person. People with corticobasal degeneration usually do not survive beyond an average of 7 years after symptoms begin. Aspiration pneumonia or other complications are usually the cause of death.