What is Atypical Parkinsonism?
Atypical Parkinsonism is a term used to describe a group of neurological conditions that share some similarities with Parkinson’s disease. People with these conditions often experience movement and coordination problems, such as stiffness, slowness, balance difficulties, and tremors. Atypical Parkinsonism is most commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 50.
Although the symptoms can look similar to Parkinson’s disease at first, atypical parkinsonism often involves additional features that are less common in Parkinson’s. These differences can affect how the condition progresses and how well symptoms respond to standard Parkinson’s medications.
One of the key differences lies in how the brain is affected. In Parkinson’s disease, the brain gradually loses nerve cells that produce a chemical needed for smooth movement, but the receptors that respond to this chemical are largely preserved. In atypical parkinsonism, both the nerve cells and their receptors may be affected. This can lead to more complex symptoms and a reduced response to Parkinson’s treatments.
There is currently no cure for atypical parkinsonism, and no treatments that can slow its progression. However, targeted therapies and supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early assessment is important to ensure the most appropriate care plan is put in place.
At Dementech Neurosciences, our specialist team has extensive experience in diagnosing atypical parkinsonian conditions and providing personalised treatment approaches to support patients at every stage.
Atypical Parkinsonism Symptoms
Atypical Parkinsonism includes several different conditions, each affecting the brain in a slightly different way. The type and severity of symptoms depend on which areas of the brain are involved and how the condition progresses over time.
Some of the most common forms of atypical parkinsonism include:
- Multiple system atrophy (MSA) affects several automatic body functions at once. People with MSA may experience difficulties with movement and balance, along with problems controlling blood pressure, bladder function, speech, and coordination. Symptoms often progress more quickly than in Parkinson’s disease.
- Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) commonly causes early balance problems and frequent falls, often backwards. Stiffness and slowed movement are common, along with changes to vision. Many people with PSP develop difficulty moving their eyes up or down, focusing, or coping with bright light. Speech and swallowing problems may also occur, alongside changes in mood, behaviour, or thinking.
- Corticobasal degeneration (CBD) leads to gradually worsening problems with movement and coordination, usually affecting one side of the body more than the other. Speech, memory, and swallowing can also be affected. Some people experience involuntary muscle tightening or abnormal postures in an arm or leg, as well as sudden jerking movements. A common feature is a sensation that a limb does not respond as expected or feels unfamiliar.
- Vascular Parkinsonism (VP) most often affects movement in the lower body. Walking difficulties, shuffling steps, freezing, and postural instability are common. Some people may also develop problems with bladder control, changes in facial movement, or a more rapid decline in thinking and memory.
- Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is associated with early changes in thinking, attention, and awareness. People may experience visual hallucinations, disturbed sleep, fluctuations in alertness, and changes in mood or behaviour. Parkinsonian movement symptoms can also be present, alongside difficulties with decision-making and problem-solving.
Why Choose Dementech For Atypical Parkinsonism Treatment?
Same Week Consultations
Early intervention is vital in Atypical Parkinsonism, which is why we aim to offer same-week consultations. Our specialists will see you immediately for assessment and advanced diagnostic tests.
Video Consultations Available
For patients who can’t make it into the clinic, our consultants can carry out a video consultation over Facetime, Skype, or WhatsApp.
Patient Advisor Consultations
You will be assigned a Patient Advisor who will go through your treatment plan and provide support and guidance to both patients and caregivers.
Prices Starting at £515
Prices for an hour-long consultation start at £515. Each follow up appointment will cost £325. We always maintain full transparency about our costs.
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Diagnosing Atypical Parkinsonism
Diagnosis typically involves a detailed clinical evaluation, including a review of medical history and observation of movement and coordination. Neurologists may conduct simple physical tests to assess motor function and identify patterns that differentiate atypical parkinsonism from Parkinson’s disease.
Imaging studies, such as MRI scans, can help detect changes in the brain that are characteristic of these conditions. Additional tests, including blood work, may be used to rule out other causes. Early and precise diagnosis allows healthcare providers to develop targeted strategies to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Standard Parkinson’s medications may not be effective, so an accurate diagnosis is crucial before creating a management plan.
How to Treat Atypical Parkinsonism
Currently, there is no cure for atypical parkinsonism, and no treatments can stop its progression. The main goal of care is to manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence, and improve quality of life.
Treatment plans are tailored to the individual, depending on the type and symptoms experienced. Common approaches include:
- Physiotherapy: Helps maintain balance, mobility, and strength, making daily activities safer and easier.
- Medication for mood or anxiety: Some patients may experience depression or anxiety, and appropriate medications can help stabilise mood and improve wellbeing.
- Speech therapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles used for speaking and swallowing, reducing the risk of difficulties
- Diet changes: Changes to diet and food texture can support safe swallowing and adequate nutrition.
Early intervention and consistent support across these areas can help people manage multiple symptoms more effectively and maintain a higher level of independence for longer.
Clinical Trials & Other Support
At Dementech Neurosciences, our specialist team has extensive experience in diagnosing atypical parkinsonian conditions and providing personalised treatment approaches to support patients at every stage.
Support and guidance for patients and caregivers are part of the treatment at Dementech. We understand the toll an Atypical Parkinsonism diagnosis can have, so we make every effort to answer all your questions and get caregivers involved in treatment so they have a better understanding of the situation.
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Meet Our Doctors
Our team of Atypical Parkinsonism experts in London provide expert care to diagnose, manage and treat Atypical Parkinsonism symptoms.
Prof. K. Ray Chaudhuri – Parkinson’s Specialist in London
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Dr Tahira Choudry – Consultant Neurologist
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Dr Nikolay Dimitrov – Consultant Neurologist in London
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FAQs About Atypical Parkinsonism
What is Atypical Parkinson's Disease?
Atypical Parkinson’s disease refers to Parkinsonian disorders that do not fit the typical clinical profile of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. Some common examples of atypical Parkinson’s include Parkinson’s plus syndrome, multiple system atrophy (MSA), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and Lewy body disease.
What is the difference between typical and atypical Parkinson's?
Typical Parkinson’s disease is a well-known movement disorder that usually starts gradually, often affecting one side of the body first. It causes tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance difficulties, and most people respond to standard Parkinson’s medications, which can improve these symptoms.
Atypical Parkinsonism refers to a group of less common neurological conditions that share some of the same features as Parkinson’s disease but behave differently. Symptoms may appear on both sides of the body at the same time, progress more quickly, or include early problems with thinking, balance, speech, or eye movements. People with atypical Parkinsonism generally do not respond as well to traditional Parkinson’s treatments, and care focuses on managing symptoms rather than reversing or slowing the condition.
In short, the main differences are how symptoms appear, how quickly the condition progresses, and how well medications work. Understanding these distinctions helps doctors identify the right diagnosis and develop a personalised care plan.
What are the symptoms of Atypical Parkinson's Disease?
The symptoms of atypical Parkinson’s can vary depending on the specific condition, but some common ones include: difficulty with balance and coordination, stiffness, tremors, changes in speech and swallowing, and behavioral and cognitive changes.
What is the prognosis for Atypical Parkinson's Disease?
The prognosis for atypical Parkinson’s disease can vary depending on the specific condition and the individual. Some forms of atypical Parkinson’s disease can progress more rapidly than others, and the symptoms can be more severe for individuals. Regular medical follow-up and symptom management are essential for maintaining a good quality of life.
What is the treatment for Atypical Parkinson's Disease?
There is currently no cure for atypical Parkinson’s disease, but there are treatments available to manage the symptoms. These may include medications, physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. In some cases, deep brain stimulation may also be recommended.
How quickly can testing be done for Atypical Parkinson's?
We carry out tests within two days of them being requested, and we will get the results back within 48 hours.
What does the consultation entail?
During a consultation, we will carry out an assessment and go through your medical history with a view to getting a diagnosis. From there, you will receive a full consultation report and treatment plan for Atypical Parkinsonism.
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