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***snipped a bit**** >Laura, > >I am not aware of any data to support the statement that depression >leads to PD . . . > >The question about alzheimers (SDAT)(senile dementia Alzheimers Type) is >more complex.. . . PD unfortunately can lead to a Dementia >that is clinically indistinguishable feom SDAT so if your father has a >true dementia the differentiation is academic. But if he has drug >toxicity from one (or a combination) of his meds, a psychosis secondary >to meds or the PD), or a pseudodementia related to incomplete treatment >of his depression there is hope that the process is reversible. A good >psychiatrist who has some familiarity with PD should be able to help >sort that out. . . . Also PD does not usually >run in families- except in rare cases or if it does its expression in >the offspring is so incomplete that it is nothing to worry about for you >over the long run. If you run any increased risk of contracting PD at >all that risk is very small. > >I hope I answered your questions. > >Charlie >-- >********************************************************** >CHARLES T. MEYER, M.D. >MADISON, WISCONSIN >[log in to unmask] >********************************************************** God Bless you. Yes, you have helped to answer some of my questions. You have confirmed my hope that there is a chance for some slowing or reversibility of his PD's progression, and you have also let me know reminded me that there may be a point at which the true "source" of his condition becomes "academic," a point at which things must be accepted and dealt with from there. I know "Thank You's" eat up space on the board, but I received several replies via personal e-mail. I wanted to express my gratitude to all at once. Best wishes, Laura