Early-onset Parkinson’s Disease in a Chronic Alcoholic: A Case Study Highlighting the Need for Multidisciplinary Care

Abstract

A Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological condition that worsens over time and is mostly defined by motor symptoms such stiffness, bradykinesia, tremors, and unstable posture. The pathology of PD is predominantly associated with the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the presence of Lewy bodies, which are intracellular inclusions containing alpha-synuclein protein. The quality of life is greatly impacted by non-motor symptoms, which frequently appear before motor manifestations. These symptoms are autonomic dysfunction, depression, sleep difficulties, and cognitive impairment. The current treatments are symptomatic, with the goal of employing drugs such levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors to mimic or replenish dopamine. Research on alpha-synuclein aggregation, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction is underway in an effort to identify disease-modifying therapies. We present a case of a 50-year-old male with a history of chronic alcoholism and smoking, who presented with shivering of hands and legs, along with general weakness and sleep disturbances. Understanding the underlying mechanisms, looking into novel therapy targets, and enhancing early detection techniques are the main goals of emerging research. An overview of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is given in this abstract, with a focus on the need for ongoing research to better comprehend and treat this complex neurological disorder. This case report offers interesting details about the difficulties in identifying and treating Parkinson’s disease in individuals with a history of long-term alcohol abuse. It also emphasizes how crucial a multidisciplinary strategy is to providing patients with the best care possible. For PD to be fully managed, a multidisciplinary strategy is needed to address both motor and non-motor symptoms. This case report aiming to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.