Secondary parkinsonism

Alternative names:

parkinsonism - secondary

Definition:

A disorder similar to Parkinson's disease, but caused by the effects of a medication or another disorder.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Parkinson's disease is one of the most common neurologic disorders of the elderly. The term "parkinsonism" refers to any condition that causes any combination of the types of movement abnormalities seen in Parkinson's disease.

Secondary parkinsonism may be caused by disorders such as a stroke, encephalitis, or meningitis; medications including tranquilizers (such as haloperidol), metoclopramide, and phenothiazine medications; exposure to narcotics or anesthesia agents (such as for surgery); exposure to toxins, carbon monoxide poisoning, recreational use of MPTP or other drugs (a common cause in adolescents); or it may occasionally be caused by other conditions. Secondary parkinsonism caused by medications is usually reversible. If it is caused by toxins, infections, or disorders it may or may not be reversible.

Parkinsonism causes a lack of muscle control because the nerve cells are unable to properly transmit messages to the muscles. In addition to the loss of muscle control, some people with secondary parkinsonism often become severely depressed. Although loss of mental capacities is uncommon, with severe symptoms of secondary parkinsonism the person may exhibit overall mental deterioration (delirium).