Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, rigidity, and tremor. It is also associated with non-motor complications, including depression, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances. Recent advances have improved understanding of its pathogenesis, which involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the accumulation of Lewy bodies, composed of α-synuclein. Genetic factors, such as mutations in the α-synuclein, parkin, LRRK2, and PINK1 genes, contribute to familial forms of PD. Environmental factors, including pesticide exposure and smoking, may also play a role.
PD diagnosis is primarily clinical, though imaging techniques like SPECT can aid in differentiation from other parkinsonian syndromes. Treatment options include levodopa, dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and COMT inhibitors, which help manage motor symptoms. However, long-term levodopa use can lead to motor complications such as dyskinesias. Surgical interventions like deep brain stimulation (DBS) are used in advanced cases to reduce motor fluctuations.
Non-motor complications, including cognitive decline, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances, are increasingly recognized and require attention. While there is no cure for PD, management strategies aim to improve quality of life. Research continues to explore neuroprotective therapies and disease-modifying treatments. The management of PD involves a multidisciplinary approach, with a focus on early diagnosis, tailored treatment, and addressing both motor and non-motor symptoms.Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, rigidity, and tremor. It is also associated with non-motor complications, including depression, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances. Recent advances have improved understanding of its pathogenesis, which involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the accumulation of Lewy bodies, composed of α-synuclein. Genetic factors, such as mutations in the α-synuclein, parkin, LRRK2, and PINK1 genes, contribute to familial forms of PD. Environmental factors, including pesticide exposure and smoking, may also play a role.
PD diagnosis is primarily clinical, though imaging techniques like SPECT can aid in differentiation from other parkinsonian syndromes. Treatment options include levodopa, dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and COMT inhibitors, which help manage motor symptoms. However, long-term levodopa use can lead to motor complications such as dyskinesias. Surgical interventions like deep brain stimulation (DBS) are used in advanced cases to reduce motor fluctuations.
Non-motor complications, including cognitive decline, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances, are increasingly recognized and require attention. While there is no cure for PD, management strategies aim to improve quality of life. Research continues to explore neuroprotective therapies and disease-modifying treatments. The management of PD involves a multidisciplinary approach, with a focus on early diagnosis, tailored treatment, and addressing both motor and non-motor symptoms.