Bright Light Therapy in Parkinson's Disease: An Overview of the Background and Evidence. (23rd December 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rutten, Sonja; Vriend, Chris; van den Heuvel, Odile A.; Smit, Jan H.; Berendse, Henk W.; van der Werf, Ysbrand D.
• Other Names: Wallace Douglas Mckay Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Parkinson's disease. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-12-23
• Subjects: Parkinson's disease -- Periodicals; Parkinson's disease -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.833005
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/767105
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-8083

Abstract

Abstract : Sleep disorders are common in Parkinson's disease (PD) and seem to be strongly associated with depression. It has been suggested that sleep disorders as well as depression are caused by a disturbed circadian rhythm. Indeed, PD patients are prone to misalignment of their circadian rhythm due to various factors, and many patients with PD display a phase advance of their circadian rhythm. Current treatment options for sleep disorders and depression in patients with PD are limited and can have serious side effects; alternative treatments are therefore badly needed. Bright light therapy (BLT) restores circadian rhythmicity effectively in mood- and sleep-disturbed patients without PD. The few studies that focused on the efficacy of BLT in patients with PD demonstrated a positive effect of BLT not only on sleep and mood but also on motor function. More research on the neurobiology and efficacy of BLT in PD is warranted.