Identification of Dysautonomias in Parkinson's Disease Based on Braak Neuropathological Stages

Abstract

Introduction: The Autonomic Nervous System regulates important functions in the body's organic systems, such as the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, urogenital and thermoregulatory components. Failures in this fundamental homeostatic component result in dysfunctions, known as dysautonomias, which lead to the manifestation of various clinical symptoms. In patients with Parkinson's disease, it is possible to determine the progression of dysautonomia by identifying the structures affected by α-synuclein accumulation by means of Braak neuropathological stages.

Objective: The aim of this article is to identify, through Braak stages, the possible involvement of central and autonomic structures that lead to the initial recognition of dysautonomias, which enables a more accurate diagnosis of the pathological progression of Parkinson's disease.

Methods: This is a Narrative Review approach that presents the identification of central and autonomic areas that leads to dysautonomia in Parkinson's disease based on Braak neuropathological stages.

Results: Based on Braak neuropathological stages, it was possible to identify that the involvement of central and autonomic structures by Lewy bodies can lead to dysautonomia in Parkinson's disease. This condition appears to follow a pattern of manifestation in the early stages of the disease and, in most cases, may precede classic motor symptoms.

Conclusion: Based on the theoretical basis of the research, it can be concluded that the application of Braak neuropathological stages for the recognition of central and peripheral structures affected by Lewy bodies is suggestive for the validation of the pathological progression of the disease, allowing a more accurate diagnosis for the feasibility of disease management.