Objective: These preliminary study aims to describe the primary clinical features of Parkinson’s disease patients requiring palliative care, as assessed by the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System for Parkinson’s Disease (ESAS-PD), and to identify the impact palliative care has on improvement of symptoms.

Background: In the later stages of Parkinson’s disease, improving quality of life requires a holistic approach that extends beyond traditional pharmaceutical treatments. Patients benefit from a comprehensive care plan that integrates input from various specialists, treating them as part of a collaborative team effort. The involvement of a palliative care specialist is crucial as they address symptoms unrelated to the motor aspect of the disease, focusing on overall well-being and facilitating improved coping mechanisms for patients. Their expertise ensures personalized support.

Method: This is a case series of patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease for more than 10 years, identified by the principal investigator as requiring palliative care, they were referred to a consultation with a palliative care specialist. During the initial meeting, the ESAS-PD was administered. Additionally, assessments for other complications such as immobility, insomnia and falls were conducted, alongside a review of their current medication regimen.

Results: In these preliminary results, we evaluated eight patients, comprising five males and three females, with a mean age of 79 (±4) years. The mean score on the ESAS-PD was 55 (±14). Among the clinical manifestations reported by patients, fatigue had a mean score of 8 (6-9), anxiety had a mean score of 6 (4-8), and depression had a mean 6 score of (1-10), indicating these as the most prevalent symptoms. Insomnia, immobility, and falls were identified as major problems aside from those related to the ESAS-PD questionnaire, in the daily lives of half of the patients. Additionally, the mean daily levodopa dosage was 600 (±213) mg.

Conclusion: Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and fatigue seem to emerge as pivotal factors contributing to a diminished quality of life among patients in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease. Addressing these symptoms should be a focal point within the holistic treatment approach for Parkinson’s disease. Further exploration is warranted to investigate the role of palliative care in alleviating these symptoms and enhancing the overall quality of life.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/palliative-care-in-advanced-parkinsons-disease-descriptive-analysis-and-symptom-impact/