Curvature of the spine in post-encephalitic parkinsonism.

Abstract

Pronounced lateral scoliosis in 14 cases of post-encephalitic Parkinsonism is described. Of these, 8 are inclined to the side of lesser rigidity, and 4 to the side of greater rigidity. The remaining 2 patients have a pronounced curvature, but the degree of rigidity is relatively the same on both sides. It is concluded that the deformity is due to positive neuromuscular activity affecting posture. This activity is related to a central nervous disturbance probably involving the basal ganglia. The head of the caudate nucleus is often severely involved in the pathological process of encephalitis. The controlling influence of the caudate upon the pallidum is lost and the excessive activity of the pallidum is responsible for the curvature of the body. Additional evidence is found in the fact that this lateral curvature can be influenced by a stereotactic operation which places lesions in the globus pallidus or its fiber connections.