What Is the Difference Between Parkinson's Disease and Parkinson's Syndrome?

When it comes to neurological disorders, terms can often be confusing—especially when they sound so similar. One of the most frequently asked questions is: “What is the difference between Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's syndrome?” While both involve similar symptoms, understanding the distinction is key to accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and better long-term outcomes.

What Is the Difference Between Parkinson's Disease and Parkinson's Syndrome?
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a specific, chronic, and progressive neurological disorder. It occurs when dopamine-producing neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra begin to deteriorate. The result is a group of symptoms known as motor symptoms—tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance problems—along with a range of non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, depression, and cognitive changes.

Parkinson’s syndrome, also referred to as Parkinsonism, is a broader term that encompasses a group of neurological conditions that cause movement symptoms similar to those seen in Parkinson's disease. These symptoms may include tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. However, Parkinsonism has multiple causes, and not all of them are due to the loss of dopamine-producing neurons.

Some common forms of Parkinson’s syndrome include:

• Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
• Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
• Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)
• Drug-induced Parkinsonism
• Vascular Parkinsonism

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The main difference lies in the cause and progression of the symptoms. Parkinson’s disease is idiopathic (no known cause) and typically progresses more slowly and predictably. In contrast, atypical Parkinsonian syndromes (types of Parkinson’s syndrome) may progress more rapidly, respond less favorably to medications like Levodopa, and present with additional symptoms such as early balance problems or eye movement abnormalities.

Why This Distinction Matters
Understanding whether a person has Parkinson’s disease or another form of Parkinsonism is important for treatment planning and long-term care. Parkinson’s disease often responds well to dopamine replacement therapy, whereas atypical Parkinsonian syndromes may not. Early and accurate diagnosis by a neurologist or movement disorder specialist can help patients and families manage expectations and seek appropriate support.

Support for All Affected: Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida
Whether you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease or another form of Parkinsonism, support is vital. For over twenty-five years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has provided comprehensive support, education, and empowerment for individuals in Southwest Florida affected by Parkinson's and related neurological conditions.
Each week, PASWFL offers over 25 free programs and support groups tailored for members living with PD and their care partners. These programs focus on movement, speech, emotional support, and community connection.

Membership is free, and becoming part of this active community is as easy as filling out an online form.​

• ​​Click here to sign up for the free PASWFL newsletter
• Click here to become a free member

For more information, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.