0
0
A new study suggests that the initial side of the body affected by Parkinson’s disease could help predict whether patients are more likely to experience cognitive decline or psychiatric symptoms as the condition progresses.
Researchers from the University of Geneva and Geneva University Hospitals in Switzerland analyzed 80 studies published over the past five decades, examining data on disease duration, initial symptoms, treatments, and psychiatric assessments. Their findings, published in the journal npj Parkinson’s Disease, indicate that motor symptoms starting on the right side of the body are linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia, while left-sided onset is more often associated with psychiatric issues such as depression, anxiety, and impaired emotional recognition.
Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder typically beginning with tremors, muscle rigidity, and slowed movement on one side of the body, also presents non-motor symptoms like sleep problems, depression, and cognitive changes. The study is the first to show that the side of initial symptom onset influences not only motor but also cognitive and emotional manifestations of the disease.
Lead author Philippe Voruz, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Geneva, emphasized the potential clinical impact: “Taking this factor into account would allow for real anticipation and guide patients towards targeted therapies based on their specific Parkinsonian profile,” he said.
The researchers noted that while the findings across the reviewed studies were varied, the concept of brain lateralization—whether the right or left hemisphere is affected—remains relevant in assessing non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. However, inconsistencies in study methods prevented the authors from drawing definitive meta-analytic conclusions.
“Patients with right-sided motor symptoms show more (overall) cognitive decline and higher dementia risk, while those with left-sided symptoms more often experience psychiatric issues like depression, anxiety, and impaired emotional recognition,” the authors wrote.
:
This article is based on a summary of research findings and is not intended as medical advice. The study referenced is observational and further research is needed to confirm these findings and their implications for treatment. Readers should consult healthcare professionals for medical guidance related to Parkinson’s disease or any other health condition1.
