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In this Article

• What is Binswanger's disease and what causes it?
• What are the symptoms of Binswanger's disease?
• How is Binswanger's disease diagnosed?
• Is there any treatment for Binswanger's disease?
• What is the prognosis for Binswanger's disease?
• What research is being done on Binswanger's disease?
• Patient Comments: Binswanger's Disease - Symptoms
• Find a local Neurologist in your town
• Binswanger's Disease Index

Brain imaging, which reveals the characteristic brain lesions of Binswanger's disease, is essential for a positive diagnosis.

There is no specific course of treatment for Binswanger's disease. Treatment is symptomatic.

• People with depression or anxiety may require antidepressant medications such as the serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) sertraline or citalopram.
  
  
• Atypical antipsychotic drugs, such as risperidone and olanzapine, can be useful in individuals with agitation and disruptive behavior.
  
  
• Recent drug trials with the drug memantine have shown improved cognition and stabilization of global functioning and behavior.
  
  
• The successful management of hypertension and diabetes can slow the progression of atherosclerosis, and subsequently slow the progress of Binswanger's disease.
  
  
• Because there is no cure, the best treatment is preventive, early in the adult years, by controlling risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and smoking.