Aluminum-containing antacids as a cause of idiopathic Parkinson's disease.
The mechanism of pathogenesis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) is unknown. In a study of 200 PD patients and 200 age- and sex-matched controls, Strang noted a marked and statistically significant higher incidence of ulcers (diagnosed by X-ray or surgery) in the PD patients compared to the controls (14% to 4%). These results have been discussed but never explained. Studies have shown increased concentrations of aluminum in the substantia nigra of PD patients compared to controls. Aluminum is thought to be a cellular toxin. Here I suggest that aluminum, and in particular aluminum-containing antacids may contribute to the pathogenesis of idiopathic PD.
Altschuler
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UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92092-0606, USA. elaltsch@sdcc3.ucsd.edu
D000535:Aluminum / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000863:Antacids / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology*; D013276:Stomach Ulcer / Q000150:complications
D000863:Antacids; D000535:Aluminum