PSPA Ireland is a voluntary organisation that is dedicated to providing advice, information and support for people living with or affected by the rare neurological conditions; Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD).

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) are neuro-degenerative brain disorders.

The death of nerve cells in the brain leads to difficulty with balance, movement, vision, speech and swallow.  The conditions progressively rob the person of the ability to walk, talk, see and swallow.  Unexpected falls usually backward and difficulty looking up or down, focusing, double or tunnel vision are characteristic of PSP. Cognitive and behavioral changes are also present.  In CBD, the arm or leg on one side is impaired at first and later the other side of the body is also affected. There is a decline in mental function.

 It is estimated that 6 in every 100,000 people over 50 are affected PSP. 5 in every 100,000 are affected by CBD.

The disease is very demanding for the carer, the person will become wheelchair bound and need 24hour round the clock care. Life expectancy is limited.

The condition is difficult to diagnose. It can present differently in people. The cause is unknown. There is no treatment and no cure.  More research is required.