Things that don't fit the other categories Flashcards
1
Q
Which enzyme converts levodopa to dopa?
A
Dopa decarboxylase (DCC)
2
Q
Which is the rate-limiting step in the formation of dopamine?
A
The convertion of L-Tyrosine to L-dopa/levodopa by tyrosine hydroxylase.
3
Q
What are complications of levodopa therapy?
A
- Motor fluctuations (sudden on-off change from a good to a poor motor response when the end-dose wears off)
- Dyskinesias (peak dose chorea, end dose dystonia)
- Visual hallucinations
These complications are related to disease severity, duration of levodopa treatment, and dosage (intensity) of levodopa treatment.
4
Q
Surgical treatments of PD
A
- Pallidotomy/thalamotomy
- Deep brain stimulation
- Intraduodenal pump
5
Q
Pharmacology of PD
A
- dopamine receptor agonists
- levodopa + DCC inhibitors (ex. carbadopa)
- COMT or MAO-B inhibitors.
6
Q
What is the best imaging modality to look for acute blood in the brain/cranium?
A
Non-contrast head CT.
7
Q
Which are populations of people who cannot get an MRI?
A
People with deep brain stimulators (DBS), VNS, or pacemakers (because of the magnets).
People who are severely claustrophobic (e.g. veterans)
