Deep brain stimulation in parkinsonian patients with dopa intolerance

Abstract

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is at present, a useful treatment for patients with advanced Parkinson's disease and motor complications. The crucial step toward consistent DBS outcomes remains careful patient selection; several conditions must be fulfilled including excellent levo dopa response. We report two cases of early onset Parkinson's disease with severe intolerance to levo dopa but excellent and sustained response to DBS. DBS can be a useful alternative for parkinsonian patients with severe intolerance to levo dopa, provided a positive acute response to levo dopa or apomorphine is obtained.

Keywords: Deep brain stimulat; Enfermedad de Parkinson; Estimulación cerebral profunda; Intolerancia a levodopa; Levodopa intolerance; Parkinson's disease.