In a nutshell
This study investigated the factors that could predict disease progression in Parkinson's disease (PD). Researchers suggested that poor blood glucose level and heart diseases may be associated with faster disease progression.
Some background
PD is a chronic disease that affects brain cells. Symptoms can be associated with movement disorders and impaired balance. Patients with PD can also have mental symptoms such as depression and anxiety. The progression of these symptoms depends on the patient and on the stage of the disease. However, there is a lack of known factors that could predict individual progression.
Prior studies suggested that age and previous disability were the most important risk factors for progression. However, these studies were small, and with unclear results.
Methods & findings
This study includes information about 135 patients with PD. They were compared to 109 similar healthy people. Participants were followed-up at 24 and 48 months.
Risk factors for faster progression were drops in the blood pressure when the patient stands, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Moreover, an increased level of uric acid in the blood was also a risk factor.
The risk factors for faster progression of mental symptoms were alcohol consumption, high blood pressure, a diagnosis of diabetes and low brain volume. Other factors such as high levels of blood uric acid, C-reactive protein (an inflammatory marker), cholesterol and blood glucose were also associated with faster progression.
The bottom line
This study suggests that cardiovascular factors, levels of blood glucose, uric acid and inflammation are risk factors for a faster disease progression in patients with Parkinson's disease.
The fine print
This study did not take into account the medication used by the patients.
Published By :
Movement disorders: official journal of the Movement Disorder Society
Date :
Nov 23, 2018
