Parkinson’s Disease and the Cardiac Cycle: A Rapid Literature Review and Case Series

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Cardiac function in patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is not well understood. We conducted a review of the literature to summarize all available data on the cardiac cycle in patients with PD and followed up the review with a case series to describe the cardiac cycle timing intervals in this patient population. Methods: Using the search terms (“Cardiac cycle” OR “echocardiography” OR “LVET” OR “IVCT” OR “IVRT” OR “LVEF” OR “Systolic Dysfunction” OR “Diastolic Dysfunction”) AND (“Parkinson’s Disease”), 514 studies were found with 19 included in the review. Results: Studies focused on the impact of medication, the presence of autonomic dysfunction, and resting-state, descriptive observational studies which considered the cardiac cycle. While inconsistent, the evidence suggests that patients with PD have some systolic dysfunction, with recent research implying the presence of subclinical systolic dysfunction. From the case series, 13 participants with PD were included and collected cardiac data daily for 6 weeks. Heart rate was consistent on a weekly basis at 67–71 bpm. Mean week-by-week cardiac parameters were also consistent with the systolic time interval at 332–348 ms, isovolumic relaxation time at 92–96 ms, and isovolumic contraction time at 34–36 ms. Conclusion: These timing intervals add valuable normative values for this patient population and the review of the literature suggests that more research is required to better understand cardiac cycle timing intervals in patients with Parkinson’s Disease.

Gene Expression Profiling of Post Mortem Midbrain of Parkinson’s Disease Patients and Healthy Controls

“…Notably, Bardutz et al [56] recently suggested alterations in systolic function in PD patients, possibly related to dysfunctional cardiac muscle contraction. Oleksakova et al [57] highlighted differences in baroreflex function and the baroreflex-mediated vasoconstriction response to orthostasis in PD patients.…”

Effect of exercise on sleep quality in Parkinson’s disease: a mini review

“…This helps healthcare providers diagnose sleep disorders and monitor treatment progress. In patients with PD, actigraphy assessments showed various impaired sleep parameters, including sleep efficiency [ 31 ], wake after sleep onset, and total sleep time as compared to controls [ 32 ]. Improved objective sleep measures are associated with improved morning mobility, implying a potential improvement in dopamine regulation [ 33 ].…”