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Other studies are under way to determine whether RBD is a state of pre-Parkinson's, pre-dementia or pre-multiple system atrophy (another type of synucleinopathy), according to the Mayo Clinic researchers.

Researchers have reported that as the brain-degenerating disease progresses, RBD may decrease in frequency and intensity or resolve completely, says Dr. Tippmann-Peikert.

There is no intervention to prevent those with RBD from progressing to Parkinson's disease, dementia or multiple system atrophy, says Dr. Tippmann-Peikert, as the origin of RBD is not clear enough to develop an appropriate therapy. Even though no preventive treatment exists yet, she says RBD patients can:

• Use safety precautions in their bedrooms to prevent injury (e.g., move nightstands away from the bed, use extra pillows or pillows on the floor next to the bed for extra padding, remove dangerous objects such as weapons from the bedroom, lock all windows and doors to walk-out decks)
• See a sleep specialist and, if prescribed, take medications to suppress RBD symptoms
• Become familiar with the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease, dementia or multiple system atrophy
• Follow up regularly with a sleep specialist to monitor for signs of brain-degenerating illnesses, and consider a referral to a neurologist if any signs appear

Dr. Tippmann-Peikert also stresses the importance of diagnosing RBD as early as possible.

"Awareness of excessive nocturnal behaviors and dream enactment and bringing it to the attention of a physician could lead to an early diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, dementia or multiple system atrophy," she says. "Hopefully, early identification of patients with idiopathic RBD will lead to close monitoring and early treatment of any developing neurological disorders."

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Contact: Lisa Lucier
newsbureau@mayo.edu
507-284-5005
Mayo Clinic
19-Jun-2006