Study of Treatment Pattern of Neurodegenerative Diseases in a Pakistani Context

Abstract

Introduction: Neurodegenerative disease is a multi-factorial disease which is
attributed to the constant degeneration of the function and structure of central and
peripheral nervous system. Alzheimer and Parkinson’s diseases are common degenerative diseases all over the world including Pakistan.
Objectives: To find out the disease treatment pattern of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson’s disease) in a Pakistani context. The study
will help the practicing neuro physicians in Pakistan to get an insight about the findings.
Methodology: This study was conducted at private hospital of Karachi having 200
indoor patients from Dec 2020 to June 2021. Patients selected through convenience
sampling by screening at two stages. At first the patients were screened at general
OPD or ER. The attending physician then referred the cases to consultant physicians.
After confirmation at this level the cases referred to the neurologist. A total of 146
patients were diagnosed for Alzheimer disease while 46 were diagnosed for Parkinson’s disease.
Results: For this cohort 146 cases diagnosed as having Alzheimer's disease; female
outnumber male and almost all were suffering from one or more other illness as
well. Mild grade seen mostly during 50-59 years of age. 48 cases were diagnosed as
Parkinson's disease, males affected more than female and most were in their fifties.
In comparison to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease had a mild relationship
with the independent variables for example motor symptoms and other comorbidity.

Keywords: Neurogenerative disorders, Parkinsonism, Alzheimer disease.