[Long-term levodopa syndrome. Report of a clinical case]

Arch Sci Med (Torino). Oct-Dec 1978;135(4):637-9.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Since it is was first described by James Parkinson in 1817 much has been learnt about Parkinson's disease. The complete picture is not clear, however, and a new impulse has been given to the study of the physiopathology of the basal ganglia by the therapeutic employment of L-Dopa with a peripheral inhibitor of the decarboxylase. This treatment is the best available particularly for akinetic-hypertonic forms. In certain cases, however, patients developed a dyskinetic long-term L-Dopa syndrome, depending on the amount of L-Dopa given and individual sensitivity. The syndrome occurs in Parkinsonism only and can be prevented by thalamolysis. It would appear to be a specific expression of the effect of L-Dopa on the striatonigral system rather than of generic hypersensitivity due to denervation. A personal case is presented.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Basal Ganglia / drug effects
  • Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Levodopa / administration & dosage
  • Levodopa / adverse effects*
  • Levodopa / therapeutic use
  • Middle Aged
  • Parkinson Disease, Secondary / drug therapy*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Levodopa