Question

Describe the anatomic structures and the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in Parkinson's disease

and list 3 signs or symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and the underlying mechanisms causing each sign or symptom

Answer 1

Anatomical structures involved : damage to basal ganglion and substantia nigra

Pathophysiology :

1. Destruction of dopaminergic cell in substantia nigra in basal ganglion
2. Decrease in dopamine in neural pathway
3. Impairments of extrapyramidal tract
4. Impairments of complex body movements
5. Tremors, rigidity,bradykinesia ( aka parkinsonism)

Sign and symptoms :

1 : Tremors : Tremors are related to basal ganglia, which are primarily affected by dopamine depletion in Parkinson's disease.

2 : Rigidity : long-latency of the stretch reflex and increased sensitivity of muscle spindles.

3. Problem with coordination : due to impairment of extrapyramidal tract