Epidemiology and Etiology of Parkinson's Disease

摘要

The terms Parkinson's disease, Parkinson syndrome and parkinsonism are all used to describe clinical disorders which have in common, any two of the three - bradykinsia, rigidity and tremor. Several different conditions can present as Parkinson syndrome. The most common variety is called the idiopathic Parkinson's disease which accounts for over 85% of all parkinsonian cases. Some known causes of Parkinson syndrome are an encephalitis epidemic during early part of this century, major tranquilizing drugs, poisoning with carbon monoxide, manganese or MPTP and frequent head injuries such as in professional boxers. Although the cause of idiopathic Parkinson's disease is still unknown, it is now well established that the disease is not genetically linked. The cause is believed to be related to environmental factors and the current data indicate the contact with the causal agent occurs at an early age. Identification of the cause would have major implications to better treatment and one day, even prevention may be possible.