title: [Neurobiology of pathological gambling].
abstract: Approximately one third of problem gamblers in Finland suffer from pathological gambling. An essential factor affecting the genesis of pathological gambling is a dysfunction of the dopaminergic reward system. It may be associated with the pleasure arising from gambling along with the reward and expectance of reward. In Parkinsons's disease patients receiving dopaminergic medication, pathological gambling and disturbances of impulse control are more common than in the average population. Various psychosocial modes of treatment and medications have been developed for the treatment of pathological gambling, but based on current knowledge, none of them displays particular efficacy.
authors: TYKS:n neurologian klinikka ja Valtakunnallinen PET-keskus, PL 52, 20521 Turku.
authors: Valtteri
authors: V
authors: Kaasinen
authors: Jukka
authors: J
authors: Halme
authors: Hannu
authors: H
authors: Alho
mesh_terms: D000978:Antiparkinson Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005387:Finland / Q000453:epidemiology; D005715:Gambling / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D000978:Antiparkinson Agents