Multidisciplinary Care in Unknown Dopaminergic Disorder: A Case Report - Abstract
This clinical case shows a child suffering from a dystonic-dyskinetic Doparesponsive syndrome, of non-determined etiology, in which errors of metabolism affect he dopamine biosynthesis. This clinical picture leads to a progressive neurological deterioration, lack of postural development, rigidity and tremors, impacting very seriously on the functioning level of the child and on the family resources. Levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel therapy is a possible treatment for motor control in Parkinson’s disease; it is delivered through a gastrostomy in the duodenum by an infusion pump, and it is unaffected by gastric emptying. After the onset of this therapy, the child
achieved a gradual recovery of the postural tone and upper limbs function, succeeding to grasp and move objects. Today the child requires a high caring load by the family, which is fully absorbed during day and night. In view of supporting the clinical condition of the child, continuous home care and health professionals were required. Health professionals involved in this multidisciplinary team included home nurses, a physiotherapist, a speech therapist, a developmental neuro and psychomotor therapist, and a nursing assistant. To guarantee continuity of care, working agreement between health professionals is essential; at this regard, the nurse plays a key role. To date, clinical investigations are ongoing to define the etiological picture presented by the child and further researches are necessary to identify new strategies in delivering the best care to subjects affected from this clinical condition.