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Gastrointestinal Features of Parkinson’s Disease

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Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are among the most common nonmotor manifestations of Parkinson’s disease (PD), and they have many important ramifications for patients. The purpose of this review is to raise awareness of the full spectrum of GI symptoms in PD which include weight loss, sialorrhea, dysphagia, nausea, constipation, and defecatory dysfunction. We will discuss their practical significance, and outline a clear approach to their evaluation and management. A brief discussion about the impacts of commonly used medical and surgical PD therapies on GI symptom manifestation is also included.

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Disclosure

Conflicts of interest: L.J. Cloud: has participated in a scientific advisory board for UCB Pharma and expenses were paid for the travel to this meeting; J.G. Greene: none.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Emory University, 1841 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA

    Leslie J. Cloud

  2. 505H Whitehead Biomedical Research Building, Emory University, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA

    James G. Greene

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  1. Leslie J. Cloud
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Correspondence to Leslie J. Cloud.

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Cloud, L.J., Greene, J.G. Gastrointestinal Features of Parkinson’s Disease. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 11, 379–384 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-011-0204-0

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