[Parkinson's disease: a clinical update]

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common disorder that causes a marked decrease in the quality of life of patients and implies high costs at the social, familiar and economic levels. The diagnosis is essentially achieved on clinical grounds and there is an extensive list of possible differential diagnoses, thus being fundamental to recognize the typical clinical features of PD, and then proceed to effective treatment, thus improving disability and the quality of life of patients. This review article, built on evidence-based knowledge and clinical experience, approaches pathogenesis, clinical features, the diagnostic methodology and current concepts in the treatment of PD in a pragmatic and updated manner.