Parkinson's Disease Is Not The Same As Parkinsonism

Many patients and their families often confuse Parkinson's Disease with Parkinsonism when searching online for treatment and prevention options. They may assume they are the same condition, but in reality, Parkinson's Disease is not the same as Parkinsonism. According to Professor Wang from the Department of Neurosurgery at a leading hospital, Parkinsonism and idiopathic Parkinson's Disease are distinctly different.

Are Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease the Same?

Although they may seem to differ only by the words "disease" and "syndrome," they are actually quite different. Parkinson's Disease is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra, which leads to reduced dopamine levels in the brain's basal ganglia. On the other hand, Parkinsonism refers to a group of neurological conditions that cause movement disorders similar to those seen in Parkinson's Disease. These symptoms are usually the result of other brain-related issues such as infections, trauma, hemorrhage, or stroke. In short, Parkinsonism is a collection of symptoms rather than a single illness.

What Is the Relationship Between Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease?

In a broader sense, Parkinson's Disease falls under the umbrella of Parkinsonism and is, in fact, the most common type—accounting for approximately 80% of cases. It is often referred to as "idiopathic" or "primary" Parkinson's Disease.

Types of Parkinsonism

Under the narrower definition, Parkinsonism refers to conditions other than Parkinson's Disease that display similar symptoms. These include:

1. Parkinson's Disease
2. Secondary Parkinsonism: Caused by factors such as trauma, toxins, medications, vascular disease, tumors, or encephalitis
3. Hereditary-Degenerative Parkinsonism
4. Parkinson-Plus Syndromes

Compared to Parkinson's Disease, Parkinsonism often progresses more rapidly.

Do Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease Have the Same Treatment?

Before treatment begins, an accurate diagnosis is essential. This involves a detailed medical history, observation of symptoms, evaluation of disease progression, and motor function tests. Some patients may also require imaging tests like brain MRI to assess structural changes and differentiate between Parkinson's Disease and other forms of Parkinsonism.

Once diagnosed, primary Parkinson's Disease is typically managed with medications such as Levodopa (Sinemet), Trihexyphenidyl (Artane), and Pramipexole (Mirapex). These drugs are effective in controlling symptoms and the disease generally progresses slowly. However, in cases of secondary Parkinsonism or Parkinson-Plus Syndromes, the disease may advance more quickly and while similar medications can be used, they may not be as effective as in idiopathic Parkinson's.

Surgical Options for Parkinson's Disease

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), or brain pacemaker surgery, is an option primarily for patients with idiopathic Parkinson's Disease. Ideal candidates are typically under the age of 75, although this may be extended if the patient is in good general health. Patients must also have had the disease for at least four years and undergo a comprehensive pre-surgical evaluation to determine suitability for the procedure.