Target Audience

DMU faculty, staff, students, residents, and the medical community.

Educational Need

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a progressive disorder that causes central nervous system degeneration and unintended neuromuscular symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. It is considered young-onset PD (YOPD) when the individual is younger than 50. While the clinical presentation is similar to late-onset PD, YOPD patients experience symptoms and take medications for longer, contributing to a significantly greater risk of developing dyskinesias and dystonias. They also often face unique financial, family, and employment challenges that are less frequently an issue than their late-onset counterparts.

A positive aspect of YOPD is that younger brains are more neuroplastic, which allows the brain to respond to treatment more effectively. Participation in specialized movement programs early in the disease progression can maintain and even improve the loss of central nervous system function. Cases of YOPD should be referred to movement specialists as early as possible to ensure the best functional outcome for these individuals. Healthcare providers must be competent in identifying YOPD and can promptly initiate treatment for their younger-adult patients.

Objectives

• Recognize the typical clinical presentation and special considerations related to YOPD.
• Recall the most common pharmacological intervention for controlling YOPD and its side effects.
• Describe the indications for Deep Brain Stimulation in the management of YOPD.
• Explain the benefits and goals of exercise/movement-based interventions to improve symptoms and lessen the impact of the disease for individuals with YOPD.
• Reflect on how the patient perspective impacts healthcare providers.

Speakers

Session proposals are now being accepted for the DMU Grand Rounds series! Have you encountered an interesting clinical case, seen a patient with a unique history, condition, and/or treatment protocol, or been involved with interprofessional management that improves patient care and treatment outcomes? If so, you're invited to help build the series by submitting a session proposal! In addition to the rare and unique, cases of more common conditions are also acceptable, and proposals from external members of the broader healthcare community are welcomed and encouraged. Please click the button below to learn more about the series and access the submission form.