Is Parkinson’s the Same as Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)? Key Differences Explained

When someone is diagnosed with a movement disorder, one of the first questions that often arises is whether it’s Parkinson’s disease or a condition that looks similar, like Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD). While the two share overlapping symptoms, they are not the same, and understanding the differences is key to getting the right treatment, care, and support.

👉 So, how do Parkinson’s and CBD differ—and why does it matter for patients and families? Let’s break it down.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. Classic symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slowed movement, and balance difficulties. Over time, non-motor symptoms like sleep disturbances, speech issues, and mood changes may also appear.

What is Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)?
Corticobasal Degeneration is a rare, progressive brain disorder that affects movement, cognition, and sometimes language. Like Parkinson’s, CBD is caused by nerve cell loss, but it is linked to abnormal deposits of a protein called tau, rather than dopamine deficiency. Symptoms may include muscle rigidity, poor coordination, difficulty with speech, and in some cases, an inability to move one limb normally (called “alien limb phenomenon”).

Key Differences Between Parkinson’s and CBD
While both conditions impact mobility, they have distinct features:

• Cause: Parkinson’s stems from dopamine loss, while CBD is tied to tau protein buildup.
• Symptoms: Tremors are a hallmark of Parkinson’s, but are less common in CBD. Instead, CBD often involves asymmetrical stiffness and coordination issues that affect one side of the body more than the other.
• Progression: Parkinson’s tends to progress more gradually, while CBD can advance faster and affect multiple brain functions, including thinking and speech.
• Response to Treatment: Many people with Parkinson’s improve with medications like levodopa. CBD, unfortunately, does not usually respond well to these treatments.

Why an Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Because symptoms overlap, CBD is sometimes mistaken for Parkinson’s early on. However, the treatment and care strategies differ significantly. Accurate diagnosis ensures individuals receive the right therapies, resources, and support for their condition.

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
👉 Click here to become a member (it’s free!)
Discover the power of support, education, and community at www.paswfl.org.