Overview
Diagnosis
Progressive supranuclear palsy can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms often resemble those of Parkinson’s disease. Your healthcare professional may suspect progressive supranuclear palsy rather than Parkinson’s if you:
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Do not have tremors.
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Experience frequent unexplained falls.
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Have little, temporary, or no response to Parkinson’s medicines.
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Have difficulty moving your eyes, particularly downward.
Imaging tests may help confirm the diagnosis:
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MRI to detect shrinkage in specific brain regions associated with progressive supranuclear palsy and to rule out other conditions such as stroke.
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PET scan to check for early changes in the brain that may not be visible on MRI.
Treatment
There is no cure for progressive supranuclear palsy, but treatments focus on easing symptoms and improving quality of life.
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Parkinson’s disease medicines can increase levels of brain chemicals involved in smooth muscle movements, though their effects are usually limited and temporary, lasting about 2 to 3 years.
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OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections into muscles around the eyes can reduce eyelid spasms by blocking signals that cause muscle contractions.
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Antidepressants may help manage symptoms such as impulsive behavior.
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Eyeglasses with bifocal or prism lenses can help with downward vision without requiring eye movement.
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Speech and swallowing evaluations teach alternative communication methods and safer swallowing techniques.
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Physical and occupational therapy can improve balance and mobility. Facial exercises, talking keyboards, and gait training may also help manage symptoms.
Research is ongoing to develop new treatments, including therapies aimed at blocking or removing tau protein associated with progressive supranuclear palsy.
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