RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 What a neurologist should know about depression in Parkinson’s disease
JF Practical Neurology
JO Pract Neurol
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP 359
OP 368
DO 10.1136/practneurol-2017-001650
VO 17
IS 5
A1 Monique H M Timmer
A1 Maria H C T van Beek
A1 Bas R Bloem
A1 Rianne A J Esselink
YR 2017
UL http://pn.bmj.com/content/17/5/359.abstract
AB Depression is a frequent non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Its prevalence varies widely across studies (between 2.7% and 90%); around 35% have clinically significant depressive symptoms. Although depression can have an immense impact on the quality of life of affected patients and their caregivers, depressive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease frequently remain unrecognised and, as a result, remain untreated. Here we overview the diagnostic challenges and pitfalls, including the factors contributing to the underdiagnosis of depression. We also discuss current ideas on the underlying pathophysiology. Finally, we offer a treatment approach based on currently available evidence.