Neurological Conditions

What is the main brain area affected in Parkinson’s?

Substantia Nigra

What are Lewy bodies?

Eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions seen in brain cells of Parkinson’s patients

What factors may contribute to MS?

• Molecular mimicry

• Environmental factors

• Genetic factors

• Infectious agents

What is the most common type of MS in early disease?

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) affects 80% oof patients

How are peripheral nerves affected in Guillain-Barré?

Loss of myelin sheath around peripheral nerves

What does 1 DALY represent?

1 equivalent year loss of full health

What are the main pathological features of Alzheimer’s?

Plaques and tangles in the brain

Treatment options for Parkinson’s

• L-DOPA

• Dopamine agonists

• MAO-B inhibitors

• COMT inhibitors

What is the typical age range for MS diagnosis?

ages 20-40

What do antibodies attack in Guillain-Barre?

Schwann cell myelin

What distinguishes Relapsing-Remitting MS from other types?

It’s characterised by clearly defined attacks followed by periods of recovery

Why is L-DOPA used for Parkinson’s?

It helps replace depleted dopamine in the substantia nigra

What is the function of MAO-B inhibitors in Parkinson’s?

Helps prevent breakdown of dopamine in the brain

What are COMT inhibitors used for in Parkinson’s?

Help prolong effect of L-DOPA by preventing breakdown

What is the difference between plaques and tangles in Alzheimer’s?

Plaques are deposits of beta-amyloid protein outside neurons, tangles are abnormal accumulations of tau protein inside neurons

Why is MS considered an autoimmune disease?

The body’s immune system attacks its own myelin sheaths that protect nerve fibres

What is molecular mimicry in MS?

When immune system attacks myelin because it resembles another molecule the immune system is targeting

How do environmental factors influence MS?

Vitamin D levels, sun exposure may affect risk

What role do genetic factors play in MS?

They can increase susceptibility, though it’s not directly inherited

How does Guillain-Barre syndrome progress?

Starts with weakness and tingling in extremities and can progress to paralysis

What is the primary function of Schwann Cells?

Produce myelin sheath that insulates peripheral nerve fibres.

How does dopamine deficiency affect Parkinson’s patients?

Movement problems including tremors, rigidity and balance issues

What is the significance of early MS diagnosis?

Allows for early treatment intervention and better management of symptoms

How do dopamine agonists differ from L-DOPA?

L-DOPA converts into dopamine in the brain rather than agonists which mimic dopamine’s effects

What makes DALY and useful measure?

Combines both mortality and morbidity into a single measurement of disease burden

Why are MS symptoms variable?

Depending on which parts of the CNS are affected by demyelination

What triggers Guillain-Barre?

Often occurs after infection, suggesting autoimmune response

How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?

Primarily based on medical history and neurological examination and characteristic motor symptoms like tremors and rigidity

What is the role of brain plasticity in MS recovery?

Allows for some recovery during remission periods as the nervous system adapts