Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease. The majority of cases are sporadic, commonly referred to as idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD). The cardinal clinical features are bradykinesia, rigidity, rest tremor, and postural instability. A flexed posture and the freezing phenomenon are also commonly seen.
Initial descriptions of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and its management following the introduction of levodopa concentrated on the cardinal motor features. Long-term studies and clinicopathological correlation make it clear, however, that this is a disease with diverse effects, also affecting cognition, mood, autonomic function, and the sleep cycle. Patient care has accordingly become increasingly complex. With the exception of deep brain stimulation, diagnostic and therapeutic options have changed little in the past 20 years. Validated biomarkers and disease-modifying therapies are still required. This chapter aims to practically address common clinical issues and update the practitioner on advances in the field.