Defecatory function in Parkinson's disease: response to apomorphine

Ann Neurol. 1993 May;33(5):490-3. doi: 10.1002/ana.410330512.

Abstract

We evaluated the effects of the dopaminergic agent apomorphine on defecation and anorectal function in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). A gastrointestinal symptom survey, extrapyramidal assessment, defecating proctogram, and anorectal manometric study were performed in 8 subjects with PD. Basal studies showing abnormalities were repeated following apomorphine administration. Prior defecographic abnormalities were normalized following apomorphine injection in 1 of 3 subjects and significant improvements in manometric parameters were observed in all 5 subjects who underwent repeat anorectal manometry. We conclude that apomorphine can correct anorectal dysfunction in PD, and that these abnormalities may be a consequence of dopamine deficiency secondary to the PD process. These findings may also have therapeutic implications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anal Canal / drug effects
  • Anal Canal / physiopathology
  • Apomorphine / pharmacology*
  • Defecation / drug effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Manometry
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle, Smooth / drug effects
  • Muscle, Smooth / physiopathology
  • Parkinson Disease / physiopathology*
  • Rectum / drug effects
  • Rectum / physiopathology

Substances

  • Apomorphine