DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Neurological Disease

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)

HIGH SEVERITY

A rare, rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement, balance, speech, swallowing, and vision. Characterized by tau protein accumulation. Often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease. Average survival 5-7 years from onset.

Global Affected

20.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Vertical gaze palsy
Postural instability (early falls)
Rigidity
Speech/swallowing difficulties
Cognitive impairment
Emotional incontinence
Pseudobulbar affect

Treatment Options

Medications
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Surgical interventions
Deep brain stimulation
Rehabilitation
Supportive care

Risk Factors

1Age
2Family history
3Genetic mutations
4Head trauma
5Vascular disease
6Environmental exposures
7Infections
8Autoimmune disease

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Neurological examination
  • 2MRI/CT imaging
  • 3EEG
  • 4EMG/NCV
  • 5Lumbar puncture
  • 6Genetic testing
  • 7Neuropsychological testing

Prognosis

Rapidly progressive parkinsonism with poor response to levodopa. Median survival 5-7 years from symptom onset. Early falls and vertical gaze palsy are characteristic. Aspiration pneumonia is common cause of death. No disease-modifying therapy exists. Multidisciplinary supportive care essential. Differential diagnosis from Parkinson's disease is important for prognosis and counseling. Frontal lobe dysfunction and pseudobulbar affect are common.

Prevention

  • Head protection
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Cognitive stimulation
  • Physical exercise
  • Healthy diet
  • Avoidance of toxins
  • Regular monitoring

Research Status

No disease-modifying treatment. Supportive care only. Tau immunotherapy trials ongoing (Tilavonemab discontinued). Amantadine may provide modest benefit. Multidisciplinary care essential.

Sources

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539800
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.