Progressive supranuclear palsy

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Disease Overview

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a degenerative neurologic disease due to damage to nerve cells in the brain.[10490] Signs and symptoms vary but may include loss of balance; blurring of vision; problems controlling eye movement; changes in mood, behavior and judgment; cognitive decline; and slowing and slurred speech. PSP is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson disease due to similar symptoms. Onset is usually after age 60 but may occur earlier. Most cases of PSP appear to be sporadic, but familial cases have been reported. Some cases have been found to be caused by a mutation in the MAPT gene, and other genetic factors are being studied. There is currently no effective treatment for PSP, and symptoms usually do not respond to medications. Research regarding potential treatments is ongoing.[10490][10491]


Synonyms

  • Supranuclear palsy, progressive
  • PSP
  • Steele-Richardson-Olszewski Syndrome
  • Familial progressive supranuclear palsy (type)

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National Organization for Rare Disorders