Parkinson's syndrome
Parkinson's syndrome or Parkinsonism is a neurological disorder characterized by a combination of motor symptoms including bradykinesia, rigidity, rest tremor, and postural instability. It is named after the British physician James Parkinson, who first described the condition in detail in 1817.
Etiology[edit | edit source]
Parkinson's syndrome can be caused by various underlying conditions. The most common cause is Parkinson's disease, a degenerative disorder of the nervous system that affects the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain involved in coordination of movement. Other causes include certain medications (drug-induced parkinsonism), stroke, and other neurological conditions such as progressive supranuclear palsy and multiple system atrophy.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The cardinal symptoms of Parkinson's syndrome are:
- Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement and difficulty initiating movement.
- Rigidity: Stiffness or inflexibility of the muscles.
- Rest tremor: A shaking or trembling that occurs when the muscle is at rest, typically in the hands or arms.
- Postural instability: Difficulty maintaining balance and coordination, leading to a tendency to fall.
Other symptoms can include cognitive impairment, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, sleep disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction such as constipation and urinary problems.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of Parkinson's syndrome is primarily based on the clinical presentation. Neuroimaging techniques such as MRI and PET scan can be used to rule out other conditions and in some cases confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
While there is currently no cure for Parkinson's syndrome, treatments are available to manage the symptoms. These include medications such as levodopa and dopamine agonists, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis of Parkinson's syndrome depends on the underlying cause. In the case of Parkinson's disease, the condition is progressive and symptoms typically worsen over time. However, with appropriate treatment, most people with Parkinson's syndrome can lead active and fulfilling lives.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
