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Published on: January 18, 2021
Punding prevalence in Parkinson's disease
Janis M Miyasaki1, Khalid Al Hassan, Anthony E Lang
1Movement Disorders Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. miyasaki@uhnres.utoronto.ca
Summary
Punding prevalence in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients was found to be low (1.4%) in this study. Physicians should still inquire about this disruptive behavior, as patients may lack insight.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Punding is a repetitive, purposeless behavior that can occur in Parkinson's disease.
- Previous studies reported higher punding prevalence, necessitating further investigation in diverse PD populations.
Observation:
- A survey of 373 ambulatory Parkinson's disease patients was conducted.
- A low punding incidence of 1.4% was identified.
- Patients exhibiting punding often lacked insight into their behavior.
Findings:
- In a cohort of 373 ambulatory Parkinson's disease patients, only 1.4% exhibited punding.
- Interviews with 40 patients on high-dose dopaminergic therapy revealed no instances of punding.
- This contrasts with prior research suggesting a 14% prevalence.
Implications:
- The low observed prevalence suggests punding may be less common in ambulatory PD patients than previously thought.
- Despite low incidence, punding is a disruptive behavior requiring careful clinical assessment.
- Physicians should proactively screen for punding in Parkinson's disease patients due to potential lack of patient insight.
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