Parkinson Disease

Abstract

Objective: Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative movement disorder that is increasing in prevalence especially as the population continues to age. This article provides an overview of the clinical presentation and evaluation for PD, genetic and environmental risk factors, and current treatments.

Latest developments: New treatments for motor symptoms of PD (eg, motor fluctuations, extending "on time"), including istradefylline and opicapone, have been approved. A subcutaneous pump to provide dopaminergic agents to patients is now available. Additionally, skin biopsy staining for α-synuclein has become a viable option for patients with diagnostic uncertainty of synucleinopathy.

Essential points: PD is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative movement disorder with many potential presentations. Both motor and nonmotor symptoms are present during the disease course, and symptomatic medication and advanced surgical techniques have the potential to improve quality of life. Patients living with PD may manifest improvement in symptoms and quality of life from behavioral, pharmacologic, and surgical interventions. There remains no clear intervention to modify the progression of PD.