Progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal degeneration

The clinical and neuropathological features characteristic of progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal degeneration are described in detail. These disorders are not as rare as previously believed, but are poorly recognized. In patients with parkinsonism, a high index of clinical suspicion, sometimes complemented by specific laboratory tests, should improve diagnostic accuracy. Biological treatments are at present not available, but suggested symptomatic therapies may improve the quality of life of patients with these disorders.