55. Neurophysiological monitoring during Duodopa therapy for Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Levodopa/carbidopa intra-duodenal gel (LCIG) was recently introduced as effective therapy in the management of motor complications of PD. In literature symptomatic peripheral neuropathy (PN) has been reported. The aim of the study was to assess neuropathic complications in LCIG pts, by systematic clinical and neurophysiological (Nph) examinations. 20 PD pts (12 men, 8 females) admitted to our department to start LCIG were studied. No signs or symptoms of PN were detected before LCIG. Nph was performed before and 1, 6, 12, 24, 36months after surgery. It included assessment of sensitive, motor and F waves (radial, median, ulnar, peroneal, tibial, sural nerves). Nph revealed PN in 10/20 pts, carpal tunnel syndrome in 2/20, L–S radiculopathy in 2/20. All pts followed vit B12 supplementation. The pts were stable, but 1 who presented a severe PN worsening in a subacute trend until death. PN could be detected in a discrete number of asymptomatic LCIG PD pts. The possible occurance of rare but severe life-threating diseases needs alertness. Electrophysiological monitoring can help the safe management of LCIG. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]