What Can Mimic Parkinson's Disease?

Recognizing Look-Alike Conditions That May Cause Similar Symptoms
When someone experiences symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slowness of movement, Parkinson’s disease (PD) often comes to mind. But these symptoms are not exclusive to PD. So, what can mimic Parkinson’s disease? The answer may surprise you.
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Understanding these look-alike conditions is crucial for getting the right diagnosis—and the right treatment.

What Can Mimic Parkinson's Disease?
Several medical conditions can present with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease. Here are some of the most common:
1. Essential Tremor (ET) Essential tremor is often confused with Parkinson’s, especially in its early stages. Unlike Parkinson’s, which typically causes tremors at rest, ET usually causes shaking during activity (like holding a glass or writing). ET does not typically cause the stiffness or slowness seen in PD.
2. Drug-Induced Parkinsonism Certain medications—especially antipsychotics and drugs for nausea—can block dopamine and lead to Parkinson-like symptoms. This condition is called drug-induced parkinsonism, and symptoms often improve once the medication is stopped.
3. Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) NPH is caused by excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and can lead to walking difficulties, memory problems, and urinary incontinence—symptoms that may resemble Parkinson’s. Unlike PD, NPH may be treatable with surgery.
4. Atypical Parkinsonian Disorders Conditions like Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) are called “atypical parkinsonisms.” They share features with PD but often progress more quickly and respond poorly to traditional PD medications.
5. Stroke and Other Structural Brain Conditions A stroke, brain tumor, or other structural issue can lead to movement difficulties that mimic Parkinson’s disease. These cases may show up suddenly and are often accompanied by other neurological symptoms.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Getting the correct diagnosis ensures proper treatment. Parkinson’s disease responds well to medications that increase dopamine, while some look-alike conditions do not. A movement disorder specialist can use a combination of medical history, physical exam, imaging (like a DaTscan), and sometimes response to medication to help distinguish PD from its mimics.

Support and Resources for Parkinson’s in Southwest Florida
Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis or supporting a loved one, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is here to help.

For over twenty-five years, PASWFL has provided effective programs and services that improve the quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower Southwest Floridians touched by Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for individuals with PD and their care partners—from movement classes to educational workshops to social groups.
Membership is completely free, and you can join today by visiting: www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org

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