Cortical Degeneration

Cortical degeneration refers to progressive loss of neurons and their connections within the cerebral cortex, resulting in cortical thinning and cerebral atrophy. Grossly, the affected brain may show narrowing of the gyri, widening of the sulci and loss of cortical volume, with ventricular enlargement becoming evident in advanced disease. It may occur in several neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer disease and frontotemporal degeneration, although the distribution and severity of cortical involvement vary with the underlying disorder. Progressive neuronal loss can manifest as memory impairment, cognitive decline, behavioural changes, language disturbances and loss of higher cortical functions.