What is Parkinson Plus?

It refers to the addition of other signs and symptoms alongside the classical features of Parkinson’s Disease (bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, postural reflex impairments). This diagnosis indicates that the patient presents with Parkinson-like symptoms but also exhibits additional features that suggest a different underlying condition. The most important aspect in diagnosing the disease lies in the observation of the patient’s symptoms. An expert physician can easily make a diagnosis through a detailed examination, and if necessary, further tests may be requested.

It is crucial to make a diagnosis of Parkinson Plus in order to guide the treatment in the right direction. Supportive treatments should be promptly planned for accompanying difficulties such as urinary retention, balance and memory impairments, and speech and swallowing dysfunction. Within this group, there are many diseases, some of which are quite rare.

When referring to Parkinson Plus, the primary diseases that are often meant include Multiple System Atrophy, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, Corticobasal Syndrome, and Dementia with Lewy Bodies.

Multisystem Atrophy

In addition to Parkinson’s findings, additional problems such as blood pressure problems, urinary problems, and tilting the head forward are observed

In addition to Parkinson’s symptoms, problems such as restricted eye movements, severe imbalance, sudden falls, memory weakness, and visual impairments arise.

 

 In addition to Parkinson’s symptoms, memory impairments and visual hallucinations are the most significant indicators of this disease.

In addition to Parkinson’s symptoms, signs such as more pronounced atrophy in one half of the brain, weakness in motor control of the opposite limb, and even a sense of alienation from that limb can be observed.