NINDS Cerebral Atrophy Information Page

Cerebral Atrophy

Reviewed 07-01-2001

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Table of Contents (click to jump to sections)

What is Cerebral Atrophy?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?

Organizations

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.

Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.

Organizations

NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.

All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.

Provided by:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892

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