Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. 

It primarily results from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra of the brain.

 

Pathophysiology- 

  1. Loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra → decreased dopamine in the basal ganglia.
  2. Imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine → motor dysfunction.
  3. Lewy bodies: Intracellular inclusions containing alpha-synuclein in affected neurons.

 

Clinical Features- 

Motor Symptoms (TRAP): 

  1. Tremor: Resting tremor, "pill-rolling" character.
  2. Rigidity: Increased muscle tone, "cogwheel rigidity."
  3. Akinesia/Bradykinesia: Slowness of voluntary movements.
  4. Postural Instability: Impaired balance and coordination (late feature).

 

Non-Motor Symptoms: 

Cognitive decline and dementia (late stage).

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