Electroconvulsive Therapy and Parkinson's Disease

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Abstract
Five patients who suffered from Parkinson's disease received electroconvlsive therapy for concurrent depressive disorder. Temporary neurological improvement occurred in four patients. Observations on this improvement are presented, including its onset, duration, and relationship to mood improvement. Predictors of good response are discussed. Rigidity improves most. Improvement persists for one to two months. There was no adverse effect on memory functions. Change in parkinsonism rating scales preceded improvement in depression and did not relate to the extent of this improvement. In one case, improvement in partinsonism occurred without improvement in depression. It is concluded that ECT may improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease independently of its effects on depression. It may, therefore, be a useful symptomatic treatment of Parkinson's disease.

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