Familial Early-Onset Parkinsonism, Unique Features and Socioeconomic Impact- A Case Report with Literature Review

Abstract

Early-onset Parkinson's disease (EOPD) is rarer than the classical late-onset Parkinson's disease (LOPD). It refers to subjects with onset of symptoms between 21 and 40 or 50years of age. It progresses at a slower rate than LOPD, however has a greater impact on family, professional and social life as it occurs at the prime of life. Agenetic aetiology is believed to be more common in EOPD than in LOPD. We present a 34year old right-handed primary school female teacher with onset of features of Parkinsonism at the age of 28years. There was family history of similar symptoms in father and paternal step-brother whose symptoms started in their early forties and early thirties respectfully. A correct diagnosis of EOPD is essential to aid management which usually involves a multi-disciplinary approach.