Parkinson's Knowledge 5

Question 1

Which complication of Parkinson's disease describes a sudden inability to move, as if the feet are 'glued to the floor'?

Accepted Answer

Freezing of gait

Answer

Freezing of gait is an episodic inability to initiate or continue walking, often triggered by doorways, turns, or stress.

Question 2

Which protein misfolds and aggregates to form Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-synuclein

Answer

Alpha-synuclein misfolds and accumulates in Lewy bodies, the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease.

Question 3

What is Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD), and when does it typically develop?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive decline that emerges at least 1 year after the onset of motor symptoms

Answer

PDD is diagnosed when significant cognitive decline develops more than one year after the onset of established Parkinson's motor symptoms.

Question 4

Which dietary interaction is a concern for patients taking levodopa?

Accepted Answer

High-protein meals competing with levodopa absorption in the gut

Answer

Large neutral amino acids from dietary protein compete with levodopa for intestinal absorption and blood-brain barrier transport, reducing its effectiveness.

Question 5

What is orthostatic hypotension, and why is it a concern in Parkinson's disease?

Accepted Answer

A drop in blood pressure upon standing that can cause dizziness and falls

Answer

Orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, is a common autonomic dysfunction in Parkinson's and increases fall risk.

Parkinson's Practice Test

Parkinson's Practice Test

Parkinson's Knowledge 5