Parkinson's disease Flashcards
(21 cards)
What brain region is primarily affected in Parkinson’s disease?
The basal ganglia, specifically the substantia nigra, where dopamine-producing neurons degenerate. This region plays a crucial role in movement control, and its dysfunction leads to Parkinsonian symptoms.
What is the main neurotransmitter deficiency in Parkinson’s disease?
Dopamine. The loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra leads to impaired motor function and other symptoms.
What are the four main motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Tremor (shaking, usually at rest), bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity (muscle stiffness), and postural instability (impaired balance and coordination, leading to falls).
Name two early non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Loss of smell (anosmia) and constipation.
What are some common cognitive symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Memory loss, slowed thinking, and difficulty concentrating.
What are some mood-related non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Depression, anxiety, and apathy.
How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, neurological examination, and response to dopamine medications. A DaTscan (dopamine transporter scan) may be used to support diagnosis.
What sleep disturbances are common in Parkinson’s disease?
Insomnia, REM sleep behavior disorder (acting out dreams), restless legs syndrome, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty staying asleep.
What is the most effective medication for treating motor symptoms of Parkinson’s?
Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet), which replenishes dopamine levels in the brain. Other options include dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and COMT inhibitors.
What surgical treatment is available for Parkinson’s disease?
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a procedure where electrodes are implanted in the brain to regulate abnormal neuronal activity and improve movement symptoms.
How does exercise benefit Parkinson’s patients?
Exercise helps improve mobility, balance, flexibility, and strength. Activities like tai chi, yoga, and boxing-based workouts are particularly beneficial.
What are some autonomic dysfunction symptoms in Parkinson’s disease?
Blood pressure fluctuations (orthostatic hypotension), urinary urgency or incontinence, excessive sweating, and digestive issues such as constipation.
What are Lewy bodies, and how are they related to Parkinson’s?
Lewy bodies are abnormal protein deposits (alpha-synuclein) in brain cells, which contribute to cell death and are associated with Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
What role does genetic inheritance play in Parkinson’s disease?
While most cases are sporadic, about 10-15% have a genetic component linked to mutations in genes like LRRK2, PARK7, PINK1, and SNCA.
What are some complications of advanced Parkinson’s disease?
Dementia, severe balance issues leading to falls, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), pneumonia due to aspiration, and increased risk of infections.
What environmental factors may contribute to Parkinson’s disease?
Exposure to pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and head trauma have been linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
What is the role of alpha-synuclein in Parkinson’s disease?
Alpha-synuclein is a protein that clumps together to form Lewy bodies, disrupting normal cellular functions and leading to neuron degeneration in Parkinson’s disease.
Can Parkinson’s disease be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent Parkinson’s, but regular exercise, a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and avoiding environmental toxins may reduce the risk.
What new treatments are being researched for Parkinson’s disease?
Gene therapy, stem cell therapy, neuroprotective drugs, and immunotherapy targeting alpha-synuclein aggregation are among the emerging treatments being explored.
What lifestyle changes can help manage Parkinson’s symptoms?
A balanced diet, regular physical activity, speech and occupational therapy, stress management techniques, and social engagement can improve quality of life for Parkinson’s patients.
What is micrographia?
acquired disorder that features abnormally small, cramped handwriting or progression to progressively smaller handwriting.
