History of Parkinsonism

This chapter explores the history of Parkinson’s disease and similar conditions. Dr James Parkinson’s initial description of this syndrome is covered along with all of the major developments in the understanding of the disease since then up to the modern era. Therapies are detailed, from early herbal remedies up to current treatment, including dopamine and levodopa, non-levodopa therapy, and surgery, and glimpses are given of potential future therapies. The conditions that are similar, the so-called “parkinsonian conditions,” are discussed as well. Synonyms: idiopathic Parkinson disease; Parkinson syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, Parkinson plus.