What are the different kinds of parkinsonism?
Parkinsonism refers to several neurological conditions that share similar movement symptoms. Here are the main types:
Parkinson's Disease
This is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. It's also called idiopathic Parkinson's because the exact cause is usually Show Full Answer
What are the different kinds of parkinsonism?
Parkinsonism refers to several neurological conditions that share similar movement symptoms. Here are the main types:
Parkinson's Disease
This is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. It's also called idiopathic Parkinson's because the exact cause is usually unknown.
Drug-Induced Parkinsonism (DIP)
The second most common type, caused by medications that affect dopamine levels in the brain. Symptoms can develop within days to a month after starting certain medications like:
- Aripiprazole (Abilify)
- Haloperidol (Haldol)
- Metoclopramide (Reglan)
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
A less common type that typically progresses more quickly than Parkinson's disease.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
This type often causes difficulty focusing the eyes, loss of balance with backward falls, and different posture issues than typical Parkinson's.
Vascular Parkinsonism
Unlike Parkinson's disease, tremors aren't typically present with this type.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)
The second most common cause of dementia in older adults. Dementia symptoms usually appear first, and tremor is minimal or absent.
Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)
The least common type, usually affecting people over 60. Symptoms are nearly always asymmetrical, occurring on one side of the body.
All types share symptoms like stiffness, slow movement, and balance issues, but other types generally progress faster than Parkinson's disease and respond poorly to levodopa medication.
October 30, 2025
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