NINDS Cerebral Atrophy Information Page: NINDS
Article title: NINDS Cerebral Atrophy Information Page: NINDS
Conditions: Cerebral atrophy
What is Cerebral Atrophy?
Cerebral atrophy is a condition characterized by a decrease in the size or a wasting away of brain cells and tissues. It may result from malnutrition, abnormal cell or hormonal changes, or stroke. Symptoms include muscle weakness, vision or speech impairments, and dementia. Neuroimaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computer tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), are used to diagnose the disorder. Cerebral atrophy may be a feature of numerous disorders, and may affect only part of the brain.
Is there any
treatment?
Generally, treatment-which is symptomatic and
supportive-depends upon the specific disorder of which cerebral atrophy is
a component. In some cases, drug therapy may relieve some symptoms. Care
that maintains and stimulates individuals with the disorder improves their
quality of life.
What is the prognosis?
The
prognosis for individuals with the disorder varies. Progressive cerebral
atrophy is fatal because the atrophy spreads to all parts of the brain.
Cerebral atrophy that is limited to a specific area of the brain affects
normal functioning, however, it is not necessarily fatal.
What research is being
done?
The NINDS conducts and supports research on conditions of the
brain and spinal cord, including cerebral atrophy. Much of this research
focuses on learning more about the cause(s) of these conditions, and
finding ways to prevent and treat them.
This fact sheet is in the public domain. You may copy it.Provided
by:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD
20892
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