CLINICAL AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF PATIENTS WITH PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Abstract

Introduction: The pathological definition of Parkinson's Disease (PD) is the loss or degeneration of dopaminergic (dopamine-producing) neurons in the substantia nigra and the development of Lewy bodies (a pathological hallmark) in dopaminergic neurons. Pathological changes may precede obvious symptoms by two decades or more. Objective: The present study aimed to analyze the clinical-epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study with a quantitative and qualitative approach, with measurement using statistical methods validated in Brazil, and with material collection through the application of questionnaires and functional tests, where individuals routinely treated at a Center were evaluated. Municipal Clinic in the city of Teresina-PI, a reference in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease, of both sexes, aged over 18 years, with a confirmed medical diagnosis, who provided informed consent for inclusion in this study. Results and discussion: 18 participants participated in the data collection from August to October 2023, where the main symptoms were balance deficit, mild to moderate disability, high risk of falling, greater functional independence, with no greater prevalence among men and women. Conclusion: It is concluded from the information collected that Parkinson's disease affects both men and women, with a higher prevalence among the elderly, with balance deficits as the main symptom, with mild to moderate disability, with a high risk of falling and with greater functional independence.