Subacute combined degeneration
Alternative Names
Subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord; SCDSymptoms
Symptoms include:
- Abnormal sensations (tingling and numbness)
- Weakness of the legs, arms, middle of the body, or other areas
These symptoms slowly get worse and are usually felt on both sides of the body.
Other symptoms include:
- Clumsiness, stiff, or awkward movements
- Unsteady gait
- Change in mental state such as irribility, apathy, confusion, ordementia
- Decreased vision
- Depression
- Sleepiness
- Speech impairment (possible)
Exams and Tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam. An exam usually shows muscle weakness and sensation disturbances on both sides of the body. Reflexes are often abnormal. Muscles may develop spasticity. You may have a reduced sense of touch, pain, and temperature.
Mental changes range from mild forgetfulness to complete dementia or psychosis. Severe dementia is uncommon, but in some cases, it is the first symptom of the disorder.
An eye exam may show damage to the optic nerve, a condition called optic neuritis. Signs of nerve inflammation may be seen during a retinal exam. There may also be abnormal pupil responses, decreased visual acuity, and other changes.
Blood tests, including acomplete blood count (CBC), are used to diagnose anemia or a B12 deficiency.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.