<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parkinson\u2019s disease is best known for movement symptoms such as tremor, slowness and stiffness. But Parkinson\u2019s can affect much more than movement. Changes in the skin, sweating and sebaceous glands can also occur and may sometimes have a considerable impact on comfort and quality of life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common skin problems in Parkinson\u2019s disease<\/strong> include oily or flaky skin, dryness and changes in sweating. Parkinson\u2019s disease is also associated with certain dermatological conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis and melanoma. Some Parkinson\u2019s treatments can cause additional skin reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The skin is closely connected to the nervous system. Parkinson\u2019s affects not only movement but also the autonomic nervous system, which helps regulate bodily functions including sweating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a result, some people with Parkinson\u2019s experience excessive or reduced sweating as well as oily, flaky or dry skin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Other skin problems may be associated with Parkinson\u2019s itself, while others can occur as a result of Parkinson\u2019s treatments. A major dermatological review therefore distinguishes between non-treatment-related skin disorders and skin problems associated with Parkinson\u2019s therapies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Seborrheic dermatitis is particularly associated with Parkinson\u2019s disease. Typical areas include the scalp, eyebrows, forehead and sides of the nose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Possible signs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u26aa oily or flanky skin Recent research continues to confirm a strong association between Parkinson\u2019s disease and seborrheic dermatitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What can help?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Gentle skin cleansing is important. Products that excessively dry or irritate the skin should be avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For dandruff or more pronounced seborrheic dermatitis, medicated shampoos or topical treatments may be useful. The Parkinson\u2019s Foundation lists ingredients including selenium sulfide, salicylic acid and zinc, while prescription treatment can include ketoconazole or corticosteroids in more severe cases. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If symptoms persist or become severe, consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u26aa use gentle cleansing products Moisturizers and hair conditioners are specifically recommended by the Parkinson\u2019s Foundation for people experiencing dry skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Changes in sweating are common in Parkinson\u2019s disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some people sweat excessively, known as hyperhidrosis<\/strong>, while others may sweat less than usual. Excessive sweating can affect the hands, feet or upper body and may also occur at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Importantly, sweating may sometimes be related to fluctuations in Parkinson\u2019s symptoms. The Parkinson\u2019s Foundation notes that excessive sweating can occur as a \u201cwearing-off\u201d symptom<\/strong> in people experiencing fluctuations in the effect of carbidopa\/levodopa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Practical tips<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u26aa choose light, breathable clothing If sweating appears during wearing-off periods or has recently changed significantly, discuss it with the treating Parkinson\u2019s team because medication timing or other factors may need to be reviewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Not every skin problem is caused directly by Parkinson\u2019s disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some are associated with Parkinson\u2019s treatments or their delivery systems. Reviews describe skin-related issues associated with therapies including dopamine agonist patches, apomorphine infusion, intestinal levodopa therapies and deep brain stimulation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With patch treatments<\/strong>, local redness or irritation can occur. Rotating application sites according to the product instructions and monitoring irritated areas can help reduce repeated stress to the same area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During intestinal<\/strong> levodopa therapy<\/strong>, skin irritation may occur around the PEG-J tube insertion site. Redness, tenderness, moisture, or irritation should be monitored carefully. Good daily hygiene and keeping the area clean and dry are important, while persistent redness, pain, swelling, discharge, or other signs of infection should be discussed with the healthcare team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n For people receiving continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion<\/strong>, local skin reactions are particularly important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most common local reactions is the development of subcutaneous nodules or infusion-site reactions<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The reassuring message is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n A skin nodule definitely does not automatically mean that apomorphine therapy has to be stopped.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Expert recommendations indicate that many infusion-site reactions can be managed conservatively and do not prevent successful continuation of treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The topic of nodules and skin<\/strong> care has already been covered in other blog articles<\/a>. Furthermore, our nurses in all our countries are highly trained in skin care related to apomorphine therapy and know a solution for every apomorphine-induced skin problem. Therefore, this article only touches on the topic of nodules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, I would like to recommend that all patients discuss their nodules with their nurse and seek professional advice. If you, as a nurse, are unsure or need advice, you can also contact us directly. We are happy to provide guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Good infusion-site care matters<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on the prescribed system and local clinical guidance, attention should be paid to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u26aa regular inspection of infusion sites <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Research has consistently identified an association between Parkinson\u2019s disease and melanoma, although the reasons behind this relationship are not fully understood. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Importantly, current evidence does not<\/strong> support the earlier assumption that levodopa itself causes the increased melanoma risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Protect your skin<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Parkinson\u2019s Foundation recommends sun protection and annual dermatological skin examinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In everyday life: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u26aa protect the skin from excessive sun exposure Any suspicious or changing skin lesion should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Research has also identified associations between Parkinson\u2019s disease and other dermatological conditions, particularly rosacea and bullous pemphigoid<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This does not mean that everyone with Parkinson\u2019s will develop these conditions. However, persistent facial redness, new unexplained rashes or blisters should not simply be assumed to be \u201cpart of Parkinson\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n They deserve medical assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Contact your healthcare team if you notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u26aa a new or rapidly changing skin lesion For apomorphine infusion-site reactions specifically, expert recommendations highlight persistent, enlarging reactions and reactions associated with systemic symptoms as reasons to contact the treating clinician or Parkinson\u2019s Nurse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Parkinson\u2019s disease can affect more than movement. Skin changes can be part of the non-motor picture of Parkinson\u2019s and can also arise in connection with treatment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Oily or flaky skin, dryness and altered sweating are among the common problems. Parkinson\u2019s is also associated with conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and melanoma, while therapies including patches and continuous subcutaneous apomorphine can cause local skin reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The key is not to ignore skin changes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gentle skin care, regular observation, appropriate rotation of infusion or application sites, sun protection and early communication with the healthcare team can help identify and manage problems before they become more troublesome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For people using continuous subcutaneous apomorphine, good skin and infusion-site management is an important part of successful long-term therapy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \ud83d\udd17 Skin changes_Parkinson’s Foundation<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy can Parkinson’s disease affect the skin?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
1. Oily and flaky skin: seborrheic dermatitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\u26aa White or yellowish scales
\u26aa itching
\u26aa redness
\u26aa chronically irritated areas<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Dry and sensitive skin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Some people with Parkinson\u2019s experience very dry or sensitive skin.
A simple skin-care routine can help protect the skin barrier:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u26aa avoid very hot showers
\u26aa moisturize regularly
\u26aa choose fragrance-free products if the skin is sensitive
\u26aa avoid unnecessary rubbing or friction<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Excessive sweating and reduced sweating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u26aa change damp clothing when necessary
\u26aa keep skin folds clean and dry
\u26aa maintain a comfortable room temperature<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Skin problems related to Parkinson\u2019s medication and treatment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Apomorphine infusion and skin nodules<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u26aa systematic rotation of sites
\u26aa avoiding repeated use of irritated areas
\u26aa using the right catheter and correct catheter placement and fixation
\u26aa recognizing redness, itching, swelling, induration or drainage early
\u26aa discussing persistent reactions with the Parkinson’s nurse or treating physician<\/p>\n\n\n\n6. Parkinson\u2019s disease and melanoma<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u26aa use appropriate sunscreen
\u26aa monitor existing moles
\u26aa pay attention to new or changing skin lesions
\u26aa attend regular skin checks<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Other skin conditions associated with Parkinson\u2019s disease<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When should you talk to your doctor or Parkinson\u2019s nurse?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\u26aa persistent or spreading redness
\u26aa pronounced swelling
\u26aa increasing pain
\u26aa drainage from an infusion site
\u26aa extensive blistering
\u26aa persistent itching or rash
\u26aa a skin problem that does not improve
\u26aa an infusion-site reaction accompanied by systemic symptoms
<\/p>\n\n\n\nConclusion:<\/mark><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Helpful links: <\/mark><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd17 Parkinson’s disease and skin_PubMed<\/a>
\ud83d\udd17 The association of seborrheic dermatitis and Parkinson’s disease: A cross-sectional study_JAAD<\/a>
\ud83d\udd17Protocol for Skin Nodule Management Related to Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion in Parkinson Disease_NeurologyLive<\/a>
\ud83d\udd17The Skinny on Skin and Bone Health_Parkinson’s Foundation<\/a>
\ud83d\udd17Parkinson\u2019s Disease and Its Dermatological Associations: Is Your Skin Whispering You a Diagnosis?_PubMed<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n