Parkinson's disease

or Parkinson disease

noun

, Pathology.

1. a common neurologic disease believed to be caused by deterioration of the brain cells that produce dopamine, occurring primarily after the age of 60, characterized by tremors, especially of the fingers and hands, muscle rigidity, shuffling gait, slow speech, and a masklike facial expression.

Parkinson's disease

/ ˈpɑːkɪnsənz /

noun

1. a progressive chronic disorder of the central nervous system characterized by impaired muscular coordination and tremor Often shortened toParkinson's Also calledParkinsonismParkinson's syndromeparalysis agitansshaking palsy

Parkinson's disease

/ pär′kĭn-sənz /

1. A progressive neurologic disease occurring most often after the age of 50, associated with the destruction of brain cells that produce dopamine. Individuals with Parkinson's disease exhibit tremors while at rest, slowing of movement, stiffening of gait and posture, and weakness. The disease is named after its discoverer, British physician and paleontologist James Parkinson (1755–1824).

Parkinson's disease

1. A chronic disease of the nervous system that usually strikes in late adult life, resulting in a gradual decrease in muscle control. Symptoms of the disease include shaking, weakness, and partial paralysis of the face. Certain drugs can help alleviate some of its symptoms.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Parkinson's disease¹

Named after James Parkinson (1755–1824), English physician who first described it

Word History and Origins

Origin of Parkinson's disease¹

C19: named after James Parkinson (1755–1824), British surgeon, who first described it