PARKINSON DISEASE AND DEPRESSION

Course overview

Parkinson¿s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder related to a deficiency of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain structures that control voluntary movement. Presentation of this chronic debilitating condition is insidious, usually begins unilaterally with mild symptoms, and eventually manifests bilaterally with increasingly severe symptoms. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of PD and depression, the clinical presentation, and treatment of depression in patients with PD, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.