Symptoms
posterior cortical atrophy
In this section:
Symptoms of posterior cortical atrophy can vary from person to person and can change over time.
Most people will have problems with their vision first, but some people may have problems with coordination, numbers and language too.
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How does posterior cortical atrophy affect vision?
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People may struggle to recognise objects out of the corner of their eye or might see many different objects close together as one object.
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Surfaces and depth can look different.
For example, a black object or puddle may appear to be a hole in the floor, or it may be difficult to find and reach for a door handle.
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People may not always be able to see what is right in front of them and may bump into things.
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Things may appear to have an unusual colour, appear distorted or look like they are moving around.
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People may still see an image of an object after looking away, or not be able to see more than one object at a time.
I sometimes find it difficult to recognise people, even people that I know very well. It can be distressing even though I know it’s not my fault. Luckily, the people that I have told about my symptoms have been very kind and understanding.
- Steve, who lives with PCA
Below you can hear about from Samantha about her husband Edward's symptoms, and how they progressed over time.
No two people experience dementia the same. If you are worried about any of the symptoms mentioned on this page, talk to your doctor.
Other symptoms of PCA
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Reading
A person may find they more often:
● Lose their place on a page,
● miss out lines,
● jumble up letters
● find it hard to read certain fonts and handwriting.
This can also affect everyday tasks like putting in a PIN on a cash machine.
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Judging distances and depths
● Crossing roads and using escalators or stairs can become difficult.
● Moving around can also be difficult if there are lots of shadows, lights or patterns.
● A person may reach out to grasp an object but miss it.
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Spatial awareness:
Some people may struggle with their sense of direction and terms like ‘left’ and ‘right’ may be harder to follow.
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Recognition
Problems recognising objects or faces, especially when they are not in plain sight.
People may experience problems reading clocks or signs, especially digital clocks or screens.
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Light sensitivity
Finding bright light uncomfortable, including glare from shiny surfaces.
People may have unusual colour experiences such as seeing patches of colour when it is dark.
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Coordination
Problems with dressing, for example:
● having difficulty using buttons or zips
● locating the sleeves of a jacket while dressing
● putting clothes on back to front.
Objects like kitchen utensils and remote controls may become difficult to use.
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Literacy
Finding spelling and writing hard.
People can find it difficult to remember the shape or name of certain letters.
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Numeracy
Problems with simple calculations and dealing with money such as small change.
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Mood
Some people become low in mood, irritable or anxious, or may lose interest in things.
How does PCA progress?
In PCA, the damage to brain cells spreads through the brain over time. This means that eventually a person’s memory, speech and problem-solving skills will be affected too.
As symptoms progress, people will need more support in their daily life and help to look after themselves. This can take several years, but each person’s progression is different and unique.
Below you can hear about from Graeme about his wife Trina's symptoms, and how they progressed over time.
No two people experience dementia the same. If you are worried about any of the symptoms mentioned on this page, talk to your doctor.
Downloads
Dementia information
Find out more about the symptoms and causes of posterior cortical atrophy, and the treatments currently available.
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PDF, 1,317 KB, 13 pages
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This information was updated in April 2025 and is due to be reviewed in April 2027. It was written by Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Information Services team with input from lay and expert reviewers. Please get in touch if you’d like a version with references or in a different format.
This information is produced with support from The Perfume Shop who had no input into the content.
