Skin Changes in Parkinson's Disease: What You Need to Know

Parkinson's disease

Hello, Doctor: My father, who is 60 years old, has had Parkinson's disease for over ten years, and I have a question I would like to ask.
He has a patch on both ankles that is red on the outside and black in the center, which has also been present for about ten years.
It used to be more red and was neither painful nor itchy.
A dermatologist said it was due to poor blood circulation and possibly microvascular rupture.
Recently, I have noticed that the discoloration has deepened and turned more black, and sometimes he experiences a slight tingling pain.
When I asked a neurologist about this during a visit, he mentioned that people with Parkinson's disease may eventually have darkened feet.
Is this true? I would like to verify this information because I am concerned that it could be another skin condition.
However, my father has no wounds, moles, or tumors.
If this is purely related to Parkinson's, that would be somewhat reassuring.
If it is completely unrelated to Parkinson's, I may need to take him to a dermatologist for a biopsy.
Thank you for your response.

kedy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/06/22

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

Patients with Parkinson's disease may have darkened skin on their feet.
This is not documented in the literature, so it is recommended to consult a dermatologist for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2003/06/22

More Info

Understanding skin changes in Parkinson's disease is an important aspect of managing the condition, especially as it can significantly affect the quality of life. Parkinson's disease (PD) is primarily known for its motor symptoms, such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, but it can also lead to a variety of non-motor symptoms, including changes in skin appearance and texture.

In your father's case, the description of the skin changes around his ankles—specifically the red outer area with a darker center—could be attributed to several factors related to Parkinson's disease. One common skin manifestation in PD patients is seborrheic dermatitis, which can cause red, flaky patches on the skin. However, the specific changes you describe may also relate to vascular issues, as the neurologist suggested.

Parkinson's disease can lead to autonomic dysfunction, which affects blood circulation. This dysfunction can cause changes in skin color and temperature, particularly in the extremities. The red and darkened areas you observe could indicate poor circulation or microvascular changes, which are not uncommon in individuals with PD. The fact that your father experiences occasional mild pain or a "tingling" sensation could further suggest that there is some degree of nerve involvement or vascular compromise.

It is also worth noting that skin changes in Parkinson's patients can sometimes be exacerbated by medications used to treat the disease. For instance, certain dopaminergic medications can lead to side effects that affect skin health. Additionally, the skin of PD patients may become drier and more prone to irritation, which could contribute to the changes you are observing.

While it is possible that these skin changes are related to Parkinson's disease, it is essential to rule out other dermatological conditions. Conditions such as venous stasis dermatitis, eczema, or even skin infections could present with similar symptoms. Given that the changes have persisted for over a decade and are now becoming more pronounced, it would be prudent to consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. A skin biopsy may be warranted if there is any suspicion of a more serious skin condition.

In summary, while the skin changes your father is experiencing could be related to Parkinson's disease, particularly due to vascular changes associated with the condition, it is crucial to seek a professional dermatological assessment to rule out other potential skin disorders. Early intervention can help manage any underlying issues and improve your father's overall skin health. Regular follow-ups with both his neurologist and a dermatologist will provide a comprehensive approach to his care, ensuring that both his neurological and dermatological needs are addressed.

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