Reviewed By Daniel B. Hoch PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Departm…ent of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.more »
Definition
Secondary parkinsonism is similar to Parkinson's disease, but it is caused by certain medicines, a different nervous system disorder, or another illness.
Alternative Names
Parkinsonism - secondary
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Parkinson's disease is one of the most common nervous system (neurologic) disorders of the elderly. "Parkinsonism" refers to any condition that causes Parkinson's-type abnormal movements. These movements are caused by changes in or destruction of the nerve cells (neurons) that produce the chemical dopamine in a certain area of the brain.
Secondary parkinsonism may be caused by disorders such as:
There have been cases of secondary parkinsonism among intravenous drug users who injected a substance called MPTP, which can be produced when making a form of heroin. These cases are rare and have mostly affected long-term drug users.
Secondary parkinsonism caused by antipsychotics or other medications is usually reversible if identified soon enough. However, it may not be reversible if it is caused by:
Although cognitive problems are not as common in Parkinson's disease, they may be more likely in secondary parkinsonism. This is because the diseases that cause secondary parkinsonism often lead to dementia.
For a more detailed description of symptoms, see Parkinson's disease.
Signs and tests
The health care provider may be able to diagnose secondary parkinsonism based on your history, symptoms, and a physical examination. However, the symptoms may be difficult to assess, particularly in the elderly.
Examination may show:
Difficulty starting or stopping voluntary movements
Increased muscle tone
Problems with posture
Slow, shuffling walk (gait)
Tremors of the Parkinson's type
Reflexes are usually normal.
Tests are not usually specific for secondary parkinsonism. However, they may be used to confirm or rule out other disorders that can cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, no treatment may be needed.
If the condition is caused by a medication, the benefits of the medication should be weighed against the severity of symptoms. Medications should be stopped or changed if the risks outweigh the benefits.
Treating underlying conditions such as stroke or infections can reduce symptoms.
Medications may be used if symptoms interfere with the ability to perform daily activities. The medication, dose, timing, or combination of medications may need to be adjusted as symptoms change.
Many of the medications used to treat this condition can cause severe side effects. Monitoring and follow-up by the health care provider are important. Secondary parkinsonism tends to be less responsive to medical therapy than Parkinson's disease. However, medications are worth trying if the cause of the condition is not treatable.
Medications used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
What will happen varies and depends on the cause of the disorder. If the disorder is caused by medications, it may be treatable. All other causes are not reversible and tend to get worse over time.
Discuss the situation with your health care provider if you are unable to care for the person at home (after treatment begins).
Prevention
Treating conditions that cause secondary parkinsonism may decrease the risk.
Only use medications under a health care provider's supervision. People with conditions (such as schizophrenia) that require long-term use of antipsychotics should be carefully monitored to prevent the development of secondary parkinsonism. Newer antipsychotic medications are less likely to cause secondary parkinsonism.
References
Lang A. Parkinsonism. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 433.
Lang AE. When and how should treatment be started in Parkinson disease? Neurology. 2009;72(7 Suppl):S39-43.
Lewitt PA. Levodopa for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. N Engl J Med. 2008;359(23):2468-76.
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