Marika Falla1,2, Giovanni Cossu3, Alessio Di Fonzo4. 1. Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Corso Bettini, 31, 38068, Rovereto, TN, Italy. marika.falla@unitn.it. 2. Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy. marika.falla@unitn.it. 3. Department of Neuroscience, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari, Italy. 4. Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Di Milano, Milano, Italy.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Freezing of gait (FOG) is a disabling motor symptom occurring mainly in the advanced stage of Parkinson's disease (PD). METHODS: This review outlines the clinical manifestation of FOG and its relationship with levodopa treatment, the differential diagnosis with respect to other neurodegenerative and secondary forms and the available treatment. RESULTS: We report the proposed models explaining the FOG phenomenon and summarize the available knowledge on FOG etiology's potential genetic contribution. A complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying FOG in PD is essential to find the best therapy. Different treatment options exist but are still not entirely successful, and often a combination of approaches is needed. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies focusing on the potential genetic role in FOG may increase the knowledge on the FOG etiology and pathophysiology, allowing further individualized treatment strategies for this very disabling phenomenon.
BACKGROUND: Freezing of gait (FOG) is a disabling motor symptom occurring mainly in the advanced stage of Parkinson's disease (PD). METHODS: This review outlines the clinical manifestation of FOG and its relationship with levodopa treatment, the differential diagnosis with respect to other neurodegenerative and secondary forms and the available treatment. RESULTS: We report the proposed models explaining the FOG phenomenon and summarize the available knowledge on FOG etiology's potential genetic contribution. A complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying FOG in PD is essential to find the best therapy. Different treatment options exist but are still not entirely successful, and often a combination of approaches is needed. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies focusing on the potential genetic role in FOG may increase the knowledge on the FOG etiology and pathophysiology, allowing further individualized treatment strategies for this very disabling phenomenon.
Authors: Julie M Hall; James M Shine; Claire O'Callaghan; Courtney C Walton; Moran Gilat; Sharon L Naismith; Simon J G Lewis Journal: J Parkinsons Dis Date: 2015 Impact factor: 5.568