What is the treatment for progressive Parkinson's disease?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am reaching out about my grandfather who has progressive Parkinson's disease. He is 76 years old and was diagnosed five years ago, but his condition has rapidly deteriorated in the last two years. Currently, he can barely walk without support, has significant tremors that make eating difficult, and his cognitive function is declining. His neurologist has tried multiple medications, including Carbidopa-Levodopa, but the side effects are becoming unbearable. He experiences severe dyskinesia and off periods that significantly impact his daily functioning. We heard about stem cell therapy from another Parkinson's patient who claimed significant improvement in mobility and reduced tremors. My grandfather's latest brain scan showed considerable dopamine neuron loss, and his mobility score on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale is 3.5. He also has controlled hypertension (132/78 mm Hg) and takes blood thinners for atrial fibrillation. Would stem cell therapy be safe for someone his age? How do these treatments work in Parkinson's? What kind of improvements can we realistically expect? His quality of life is diminishing, and we want to explore every possible way to help him.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Stem cell therapy is an emerging treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD), but it is still largely experimental, with no FDA-approved stem cell therapy for PD yet. However, some clinical trials suggest potential benefits in reducing symptoms and improving mobility. Given your grandfather’s advanced stage of Parkinson’s, age, and blood thinner use, there are key factors to consider before pursuing this treatment. Parkinson’s disease is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Stem cell therapy aims to:

Replace lost neurons by injecting stem cells that can transform into dopamine-producing cells.
Support existing neurons by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Modulate the immune response to slow disease progression.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.