Handbook of Parkinson's Disease PDF

Preface

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition with often devastating symptoms. Our knowledge of Parkinson's disease has increased tremendously in recent years. We have achieved a greater understanding of the neurochemistry, neurophysiology, and neuropathology of Parkinson's disease. Genes have been identified that are involved in the pathogenesis of some forms of familial autosomal dominant and recessive Parkinson's disease. Advancements in neuropsychological and neuroimaging techniques have led to improvements in diagnostic accuracy, and therapeutic options have been expanded. In addition, new medications have been approved, new compounds and therapeutic approaches are under investigation, and new surgical procedures and therapies are being explored. In spite of these advances, there continue to be many complications associated with the long-term management of both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, and treatment remains a challenge.

We present in this edition of the Handbook of Parkinson's Disease the most up-to-date information on the scientific and therapeutic aspects of Parkinson's disease. This fourth edition offers a more integrated approach to managing parkinsonian symptoms and has been expanded to include more in-depth coverage of neuropsychiatric aspects of Parkinson's disease, sleep issues, and non-pharmacological and nontraditional therapies. There is comprehensive coverage of the latest pharmacologic and surgical therapeutics as well as the newest basic research. It is our hope that this volume, in the tradition of the first three editions, will serve as a reference source for physicians, researchers, and other health care professionals seeking answers to the many questions related to understanding and treating Parkinson's disease.

We would like to thank each of the authors for their time and commitment in preparing state-of-the-art reviews of the most pertinent aspects of Parkinson's disease