DEPRESSION IN PARKINSONS-DISEASE - A REVI EW

Depressive disorders occur in Parkinson's disease in about 40 %. They often manifest - not seldom preceding diagnosis of Parkinson's syndrom e - like monopolar depression. Their cause has not yet been explained in a satisfactory way. Neurotransmitter disturbances are discussed as well as psychogenic factors. There seems to be a subtype of Parkinson' s disease with more frequent depression, which is characterized by inc reased rigidity and bradykinesia, lower age at onset and family histor y of Parkinson's disease. Especially antidepressants, but also sleep d eprivation and electroconvulsive therapy are efficient. The review is illustrated by a case report.