Parkinson-plus syndrome

Parkinson-plus syndrome
Synonyms	Atypical parkinsonism
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability, additional neurological symptoms
Complications	N/A
Onset	Typically after age 50
Duration	Progressive
Types	Multiple system atrophy, Progressive supranuclear palsy, Corticobasal degeneration, Dementia with Lewy bodies
Causes	Unknown, possibly genetic and environmental factors
Risks	Age, family history
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, MRI, PET scan
Differential diagnosis	Parkinson's disease, Essential tremor, Normal pressure hydrocephalus
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Levodopa, dopamine agonists, physical therapy, occupational therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, generally poorer than Parkinson's disease
Frequency	Rare compared to Parkinson's disease
Deaths	N/A

Parkinson-plus syndrome is a group of neurological disorders that share features with Parkinson's disease, but have additional symptoms and a more rapid progression. These disorders include Multiple system atrophy (MSA), Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), Corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

Symptoms

The symptoms of Parkinson-plus syndromes are similar to those of Parkinson's disease, including bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity (stiffness), and tremor. However, these disorders also have additional symptoms that are not typically seen in Parkinson's disease. These can include problems with balance and coordination, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and cognitive impairment.

Causes

The exact cause of Parkinson-plus syndromes is unknown, but they are thought to be related to the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain. These proteins can damage nerve cells and lead to the symptoms of the disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Parkinson-plus syndromes can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other neurological disorders. Doctors may use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests to make a diagnosis.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for Parkinson-plus syndromes, but treatments can help manage symptoms. These may include medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Parkinson's disease
• Multiple system atrophy
• Progressive supranuclear palsy
• Corticobasal degeneration
• Dementia with Lewy bodies