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