Parkinson’s Disease: A Neurodegenerative Disease

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by tremor, stiffness, rigid muscles, bradykinesia, slowness of movement, instability leading to falls, memory and talking difficulties, fatigue, writing modifications (micrography) and dementia. In addition, depression, urinary (bladder) problems, constipation, decreased ability to smell and sleep disruption are among the symptoms associated to the PD. As Parkinson’s cannot be eradicate, treatments are oriented toward a slow decline and deterioration and therefore, only palliative care predominates. Mutations of 6 genes (SNCA, LRRK2, PRKN, DJ1, PINK1 and ATP13A2), are the cause of familial Parkinsonism. They are playing a role in the metabolism of α-synucleine, in mitochondrial control, oxidative stress, lysosomal functions, transport and recycling of proteins and immunologic activities. Five stages with increased gravity have been identified. From stage 1 to 3, symptoms may be treated with pharmacological drugs. At stages 4 and 5, the patient needs assistive help and an ambulatory walker device. L-dopa is transformed in dopamine in the brain. Treatments for speech disorders increase the disability of these symptoms. Dopamine agonists, MAO-B and COMT inhibitors contribute to help break down dopamine, an anticholinergic drug aiming to reduce tremors and muscle rigidity. Death is occurring within 7 to 15 years.