Frequency and clinical correlates of postural and striatal deformities in Parkinson's disease

To assess the frequency of postural and striatal deformities in patients with Parkinson's disease.

A total of 416 consecutive patients with Parkinson's disease were evaluated for musculoskeletal deformities using a standardized criteria. Data including disease history, motor complications and antiparkinsonic treatment were collected.

The overall frequency of musculoskeletal deformities was 19.7%. Striatal deformities were the most frequent deformities (9.9%). Scoliosis was the deformity most frequently found. No cases with Pisa syndrome or antecollis were found. Striatal deformities were associated with a younger age at onset, more frequent use of levodopa, as well as higher levodopa equivalent daily dose. Postural deformities were associated with higher motor scores.

Postural and striatal deformities are common in Parkinson's disease. Striatal deformities appear to be more related to dopaminergic treatment, while postural deformities are associated with the motor state.