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Published on: August 28, 2020
Bladder dysfunction in Parkinsonism: mechanisms, prevalence, symptoms, and management
Kristian Winge1, Clare J Fowler
1Department of Neurology, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. k.winge@dadlnet.dk
Summary
Dopamine receptor dysfunction significantly impacts bladder control, leading to overactive bladder symptoms common in Parkinsonism. Addressing these non-motor symptoms is crucial for patient management.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Urology
Background:
- Functional imaging advances understanding of neural bladder control.
- Dopaminergic mechanisms are critical for normal urinary function.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review current concepts of brain function in urinary control.
- Emphasize the role of dopamine receptors in bladder control.
- Highlight overlooked non-motor bladder dysfunction in Parkinsonism.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of functional imaging studies.
- Analysis of research on dopaminergic pathways and bladder control.
- Examination of clinical presentations of bladder dysfunction in Parkinsonism and multiple-system atrophy.
Main Results:
- Dopamine receptor dysfunction is linked to overactive bladder symptoms.
- High prevalence of nocturia, frequency, and urgency in Parkinson's disease.
- Complex bladder complaints in multiple-system atrophy include urge incontinence and poor emptying.
Conclusions:
- Dopaminergic mechanisms are key to normal bladder function.
- Bladder dysfunction is a significant non-motor symptom in Parkinsonism.
- Management requires addressing overactive detrusor and incontinence.
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