Masterclass: Parkinson's Disease - The Spectrum of Psychiatric and Physical Health Problems

Parkinsonian syndromes provide an important overlap for old age psychiatry and geriatric medicine. Parkinson’s disease itself has a high prevalence of depression, dementia and psychosis; many psychiatric medications have extra-pyramidal side-effects; cerebrovascular disease may cause both dementia and Parkinsonism and also has a high prevalence of depression. Furthermore, there is a complex interaction between anti-parkinsonian medications and many drugs commonly prescribed in psychiatry. The protean manifestations of Parkinson’s disease necessitate a close liaison between the two specialties so that shared care may be of the highest possible standard. 

Led by Dr Duncan Forsyth, the half day course will cover the differential diagnosis of Parkinsonian syndromes and tremor; the pathophysiology and aetiology of Parkinson’s disease; tailoring treatment to the individual with Parkinson’s; neuropsychiatric manifestations of Parkinson’s disease and their management; carer needs; palliative care and team working in Parkinson’s, and will link to NICE Parkinson’s guidelines.

After attending this course you will be able to:

• Identify if your patient could have a Parkinsonian syndrome
• Appreciate how the motor, non-motor and psychiatric aspects of Parkinson's inter-relate
• Understand the difficulties faced by Parkinson's patients and the complexities of managing their symptoms
• Be aware of the risks and benefits of Parkinson's medications