ASSESSMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE AND MOTOR SKILLS OF PATIENTS WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE: EARLY VERSUS LATE-ONSET PARKINSON’S DISEASE

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative condition that affects the central nervous system and is extensively studied through multidisciplinary approaches. However, there is limited research on the differences in clinical manifestations and quality of life between patients of different age groups, particularly those with early-onset PD. Objective: This study aimed to compare the clinical characteristics of early- and late-onset PD, such as tremor, slow running and involuntary movements, with a particular focus on factors influencing motor deficits and quality of life. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted using the PDQ-8, a validated, self-administered questionnaire for assessing quality of life, alongside other relevant questions. Results: Data from 105 patients (56.2% men and 43.8% women) were collected in Brazil, 79% of whom had late-onset PD. Results indicated that the diagnostic delay was significantly longer in the early-onset group (7.5 years) than in the late-onset group (2.0 years; p=0.010).Quality of life scores were worse in early-onset patients (41.1 points) than in late-onset patients (33.1 points; p=0.039). Interpersonal problems were reported more frequently in early-onset PD (60% vs. 27%; p=0.029), as were involuntary movements (50% vs. 25.3%; p=0.037). Conclusion: These findings suggest that early-onset PD patients experience a greater negative impact on quality of life, both regarding motor skills and relationships. It also shows more severe motor skills impairment compared to those with late-onset PD, possibly a consequence of longer time between first symptoms and diagnosis, or of longer treatment with Levodopa. Thus, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges several strategies can be considered such as advances in biomarkers, genetic testing, and imaging techniques like dopamine transporter scans may allow for more accurate and earlier diagnosis that could lead to better strategies in treatment.