Parkinson’s

Question 1

What is the definition of Parkinson’s?

Answer 1

A neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominantly the dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra

Question 2

Describe the process leading to the effects of Parkinson’s

Answer 2

Reduced dopamine output from substantia nigra

Lewy body formation in nigral cells

Degeneration of other basal ganglia nuclei

Neurons in subthalamus become more active in inhibiting cortex

Causes bradykinesia

Question 3

What are the 3 main clinical features for diagnosing Parkinson’s?

Answer 3

Bradykinesia
Rigidity (cogwheel - upper limb, lead pipe - lower limb)
Resting tremor (pill-rolling)

Another feature is postural instability

Question 4

What are some differential diagnosis for parkinson’s?

Answer 4

Supranuclear palsy
Multiple system atrophy
Corticobasal syndrome

Question 5

What is the prognosis of Parkinson’s?

Answer 5

doesn’t necessarily cause people to die - most people have normal life expectancy thanks to treatments

Question 6

Describe the relationship to ICF, psychometric properties and what is measured for the Falls Efficacy Scale

Answer 6

Related to participation

Assesses fear of falling in 16 different activities

Adequate to excellent vailidity and reliability

Question 7

Describe the relationship to ICF, psychometric properties and what is measured for the 10m walk test

Answer 7

Activity focus

Measured motor output

Adequate to excellent vailidty

Excellent reliability

Question 8

Describe the relationship to ICF, psychometric properties and what is measured for the tragus to wall test

Answer 8

Body functions and structure

Measures the posture and kyphosis of spine

Good vailidty when compared with similar measures

Mainly excellent reliability scores