Corticobasal Degeneration

Subtle Signs, Not PD: Recognizing Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)

Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder often mistaken for Parkinson’s Disease (PD). As an atypical parkinsonism and tauopathy, it causes asymmetric movement problems, cognitive decline, and sensory issues, progressing faster than PD with poor levodopa response. Early identification aids care. CCF Coleen Cunningham Foundation, serving Canada, USA, UK, Australia, and India.

About CBD

  • What It Is: A tau protein disorder affecting brain areas for movement, sensation, and cognition.
  • Who It Affects: Onset typically after 60, no strong gender preference.
  • Progression: Declines over 6-8 years, with average life expectancy of 6-8 years post-diagnosis.
  • Not PD: One-sided symptoms and cognitive issues set CBD apart.

Key Symptoms to Look For

  • Asymmetric Movement Problems: Stiffness, jerking (myoclonus), or twisted postures (dystonia) on one side. “Alien limb” phenomenon—arm/leg moves on its own, feels detached.
  • Loss of Skill: Difficulty with tasks like writing or buttoning (apraxia), despite strength.
  • Sensory Changes: Numbness, tingling, or trouble sensing objects on one side.
  • Cognitive Decline: Memory loss, confusion, or trouble planning, often later than movement issues.
  • Speech Difficulties: Halting or effortful speech, progressing to muteness.

Subtle Signs, Not PD

  • Misjudging Space: Reaching past objects or bumping into things—blamed on clumsiness.
  • Odd Sensations: Feeling “pins and needles” or ignoring one side, unnoticed until severe.
  • Behavioral Shifts: Irritability, obsession, or apathy, mistaken for personality changes.
  • Limb Resistance: Slight resistance or heaviness in one arm/leg, dismissed as fatigue.
  • Visual Neglect: Ignoring one side of the visual field, confused with eye problems.

Why It Matters

CBD isn’t PD—its one-sided symptoms, sensory quirks, and rapid progression demand early recognition. Benefits include:

  • Tailored therapies (physical, occupational, speech).
  • Adaptive strategies (for apraxia, alien limb).
  • Global support via the CCF Coleen Cunningham Foundation.

Look beyond PD—these subtle signs could reveal CBD and improve care.

Disclaimer and CCF Contact Info

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The CCF Coleen Cunningham Foundation does not provide medical services.

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