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1. Neurology > Parkinsons > Flashcards

Flashcards in Parkinsons Deck (10)
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1
Q

What is the pathology of Parkinsons?

A

degeneration of the substantitia nigra in the basal ganglia and locus cerulus - this shows dominergic cell loss
loss of normally dark black pigment

2
Q

What is the presentation of Parkinsons?

A

60-70% of neurodegenerative damage is done before you develop the motor symptoms
motor symptoms: tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, postural instability
non motor symptoms: sleep disorders, hallucinations, depression, dementia, constipation, GI dysfunction, anosmia

3
Q

What is the pathological hallmark of parkinsons?

A

Lewy bodies

4
Q

How is parkinsons diagnosed?

A

brain imaging and DaTSCAN

bradykinesia and 1 of: resting tremor, postural instability and rigidity

5
Q

What are the risk factors for developing Parkinson’s?

A

men > women
advancing age
positive family history- 5% familial
genes - PARKIN (recessive) and LRRK2 (dominant)

6
Q

When do you commence treatment for parkinsons?

A

when the patient feels like the disease is taking over their life

7
Q

What is first line to treat parkinsons? Why?

A

Levodopa - enhances cerebral dopamine concentration and stimulates dopamine receptors

8
Q

What can also be used to treat tremors?

A

anticholinergics - trihexyphenidyl or clozapine

9
Q

What are the side effects of levodopa?

A

nausea
daytime sleepiness
oedema

10
Q

In what patients should dopamine agonists be avoided in?

A

patients with a history of addiction, OCD or impulsive personality