Brain atrophy and cerebral atrophy are terms used when there is a loss of tissue in the brain. This means there is a loss of brain cells and, in some cases, a loss of nerve conduction between cells. Atrophy can affect the entire brain or be localized to a certain section. Depending on the location and severity of the atrophy, various symptoms can occur. Understanding the cause of significant brain atrophy helps determine the right treatment approach.
Alzheimer's Disease
The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are caused by a build up of a protein called beta-amyloid. This protein destroys nerurons in the brain, causing atrophy, according to the University of California San Francisco. Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scans can help detect the location and severity of the atrophy.
If this condition is caught early enough, medications may help to slow the destruction. If significant brain atrophy occurs, the patient can experience memory loss, emotional outbursts, depression, and difficulty communicating and may lose the ability to remain independent. The exact symptoms vary, depending on the area of the brain involved.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when the brain does not get the blood and oxygen it needs to function properly. This can occur if an artery that supplies the brain becomes blocked, or if a blood vessel within the brain ruptures. During a stroke, brain cells can die, which in turn can lead to atrophy of the brain.
Every stroke is different. Some cause temporary problems while others cause permanent disabilities. Some cause widespread atrophy while others cause localized cell death. After a stroke occurs, a doctor can perform a magnetic resonance imaging or MRI, which to identify the location and amount of damage.
Depending on the area of the brain affected, strokes can cause memory problems, paralysis and behavioral changes. Some patients lose the ability to live independently.
Huntington's Disease
Huntington's disease is an inherited genetic disorder, a progressive condition that causes brain cell death and cerebral atrophy. While the exact mechanisms of this disease still are not well understood, it may be that this defective gene, causes the production of proteins that interfere with the brain cells' ability to use cholesterol. When the brain cells cannot use cholesterol, they can die.
According to the Huntington's Disease Society of America, this disease progresses in stages. It can cause emotional and behavioral changes, trouble with speech, loss of muscle control, among many other symptoms.
Encephalitis and Neurosyphilis
Encephalitis is caused by a virus that leads to inflammation of brain cells. The Herpes simplex virus type 1 is the most common cause, warns the American Medical Association. Neurosyphilis is a bacterial infection of the brain, according to the National Institutes of Health. Both of these conditions can be successfully treated if caught in the early stages. In other cases, severe brain damage may lead to permanent complications and even death. Encephalitis and neurosyphilis can cause headaches, extreme fatigue, loss of muscle control, seizures, visual changes and confusion.
