Parkinson’s Disease (PD)

-progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor ability

-third most common neurologic disorder of older adults

Population at risk: Male> Female Two types 1) 21- 40 yrs. of age (young onset)

Michael J. Fox at age 30 2) 40- 70 yrs. of age (idiopathic)

over 1 million affected in US with 50,000 -60,000 new cases each year

http://www.parkinson.org/parkinson-s-disease.aspx

Genetics- only about 5% Environmental factors -rural living -well water -pesticides/herbicides Age

Presence of motor dysfunction with 4 cardinal symptoms

resting tremor akinesia (slowness of body movement) rigidity Postural instabilityNO PREVENTION, NO CURE

Degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra of the midbrain› Disrupts the balance of:

dopamine (DA) – neurotransmitter for normal functioning of the extrapyramidal motor system

Acetylcholine (Ach)

Symptoms do not occur until 80% of the neurons in the substantia nigra are lost

Fatigue Problems with manual dexterity Slight tremor Rigidity Changes in facial expression Uncontrolled drooling

Dementia Dysphagia Excessive perspiration Orthostatic hypotension No specific diagnostic tests