Understanding Parkinson's Disease

A neurologist whose father suffers from Parkinson's provides a layreader-friendly explanation of the disease, its history, development, treatment and modern advances that may ultimately lead to a cure. Rosenbaum's professional view is as a clinical neurologist who regularly cares for patients with the progressive neurological deterioration caused by Parkinson's Disease. His personal experience with his father, a retired surgeon, further powers his quest to give patients, family members and caregivers what they need to know. Topics covered include challenges of correct diagnosis, variations in prognosis, investigations of causes including exciting progress in possible toxins and genetic factors that play a role, and different treatment options including natural remedies as well as new drugs for symptom treatment. Rosenbaum also explains research efforts to find a preventative drug, modern surgical options and hopes for stem cell or gene therapy.

In this work, Rosenbaum blends historical and medical research with illustrations from the patients in his professional life, and from his dad on the homefront, to give us a clear and comprehensive understanding of Parkinson's. He also includes writing from and attention to well-known individuals affected by this disorder—among them actor Michael J. Fox.

Richard B. Rosenbaum, M.D. is a Clinical Professor of Neurology at Oregon Health Sciences University, and a practicing Neurologist at The Oregon Clinic. He is a board-certified Neurologist, a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and also the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine. He earned his medical degree at Harvard University Medical School.