Clinical Impact of Deep Brain Stimulation on the Autonomic System in Patients with Parkinson's Disease.

Background: The role of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the management of motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease is well defined. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that DBS can either improve or worsen a number of non-motor phenomena.

Objectives: We examined the published literature to better understand the effects on autonomic symptoms following DBS of the subthalamic nucleus and the globus pallidus interna.

PET Evaluation of Microglial Activation in Non-neurodegenerative Brain Diseases.

Purpose Of The Review: Microglial cell activation is an important component of neuroinflammation, and it is generally well accepted that chronic microglial activation is indicative of accumulating tissue damage in neurodegenerative conditions, particularly in the earlier stages of disease. Until recently, there has been less focus on the role of neuroinflammation in other forms of neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions. Through this review, we hope to demonstrate the important role TSPO PET imaging has played in illuminating the pivotal role of neuroinflammation and microglial activation underpinning these conditions.