Exploring Fatigue in Parkinson's Disease: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Medical Research

Background:

• Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating non-motor symptom in Parkinson's disease (PD), affecting up to two-thirds of patients.
• It significantly impacts patients' quality of life and is often overlooked in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the pathophysiology, prevalence, clinical presentation, assessment, and management of fatigue in Parkinson's disease.
• To highlight the need for standardized definitions and assessment tools for PD fatigue.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review and analysis of existing research on Parkinson's disease fatigue.
• Examination of studies on diagnostic criteria, assessment scales, and therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• Fatigue in PD is associated with dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic pathway dysfunction, neuroinflammation, genetics, and metabolic issues.
• Prevalence rates vary (36%-60%), and fatigue is characterized by profound exhaustion, often preceding motor symptoms.
• Current assessment relies on patient-reported scales; management involves pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies.

Conclusions:

• Further research is crucial to elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying PD fatigue.
• Development of objective biomarkers and more effective, targeted treatments is needed.
• Improved understanding and management strategies are essential for this burdensome symptom.