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Research from Rush University provide new insights into behavior disorders



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2008 JAN 14 -- "REM sleep abnormalities are frequently encountered in disorders with alpha-synuclein pathology including Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, and dementia with Lewy bodies. Symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) may precede the onset of motor and cognitive symptoms in these underlying neurological disorders," investigators in the United States report.

"Clinical and neuroimaging studies suggest that there may be reductions in dopaminergic mechanisms centrally in primary RBD. Anatomic studies in animals suggest dysfunction of brainstem nuclei. The treatment of RBD has not been adequately evaluated with controlled studies," wrote C.L. Comella and colleagues, Rush University.

The researchers concluded: "Clonazepam and melatonin might be effective."

Comella and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Neurology (REM sleep disorders and parkinsonism. Journal of Neurology, 2007;254(Suppl. 5):56-60).

For additional information, contact C.L. Comella, Rush University, Medical Center, Dept. of Neurology Science, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.

The publisher of the Journal of Neurology can be contacted at: Dr. Dietrich Steinkopff Verlag, PO Box 10 04 62, D-64204 Darmstadt, Germany.

Keywords: United States, Chicago, Behavior Disorders, Behavior Disorder, Central Nervous System Disease, Dementia, Developmental Disabilities, Multiple System Atrophy, Neurology, Parkinson Disease, Parkinsonian Disorders, Parkinsonism, Pathology, Psychiatry, Sleep Disorders, Urology, Rush University.

This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Pain & Central Nervous System Week via NewsRx.com.