The symptoms of PCA are caused by changes in the brain cells that process visual information from our eyes.

Listen to our information about PCA or download the full audio

0:00
0:00

In PCA caused by Alzheimer’s disease, it is not clear why the disease affects this part of the brain more so than the areas affected by typical Alzheimer’s, which generally are involved in memory.

It is thought that what makes up a person’s risk of developing PCA is similar to other types of dementia. This is a complex mix of factors such as our age, the genes we inherit from our parents, and our environment and lifestyle. Scientists are working hard to find out more, as well as exploring specific genetic or lifestyle risk factors for the condition.

You can find out more about risk factors for dementia here, and about genes and dementia here.

What is posterior cortical atrophy?

Find out more about the symptoms and causes of posterior cortical atrophy, and the treatments currently available.

Older man holds magazine in kitchen, while women stands next to him and points at it.
RS1317_Alex_Wallace_Photography_ARUK_Rebrand_Des and Valli_April 2023 (64)

Order health information

Alzheimer’s Research UK has a wide range of information about dementia. Order booklets or download them from our online form.

This information was written in April 2021 and is due for review in April 2023. Please contact us if you would like a version with references.

Was this information helpful?

Let us know what you think by filling out this short survey.

infoline-sidebar

Dementia Research Infoline

Want to know more about current research? Keen to get involved in research projects?

Contact the Dementia Research Infoline,

9am-5pm, Monday to Friday

0300 111 5 111

infoline@alzheimersresearchuk.org