PSYCHOTIC SYMPTOMS AND PARKINSONS DISEASE: CLINICAL AND THERAPEUTIC ASPECTS

Introduction: Parkinsons disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimers disease. Affects 1% of the population after the age of 60. Motor symptoms are the most common features that may be associated with non-motor symptoms including psychotic symptoms.

Objective: The aim of this work is to provide an up-to-date overview of the treatment of psychotic symptoms in Parkinsons disease.

Methods: We describe 3 cases of development of psychotic symptoms, which occurred in patients with Parkinsons disease, and provide an update on the management of psychiatric symptoms manifestations in Parkinsons disease, by brief literature review.

Results: Case 1: 42-year-old man, married, received a diagnosis of PD at the age of 38, presented auditory hallucinations, which occurred 12 months following antiparkinsonian drugs use. Case 2: 58-year-old man, without any notable history, received a diagnosis of PD at the age of 41, presented jealousy delusions and behavioral disorders, which occurred 12 years following antiparkinsonian drugs use. Case 3: 76-year-old man, received a diagnosis of PD at the age of 40, presented visual hallucinations, subjective sensation of a presence and jealousy delusion, which occurred 26 years following antiparkinsonian drugs use.

Conclusion: Psychotic symptoms in Parkinsons disease are frequent. Management consists of treating psychotic symptoms without worsening motor symptoms related to hypo-dopaminergia.