Astrid Juhl Terkelsen

Astrid Juhl Terkelsen says: “Parkinson’s disease (PD) is common, disabling and caused by neuronal death due to neurotoxic deposition of a protein, α-synuclein in the central and peripheral nervous system. Accumulating evidence suggest early involvement and spread of α-synuclein via the peripheral to the central nervous system. We present a model of very early PD confined to the peripheral nerves thus preparing for disease-modifying treatments earlier than hitherto possible before damage to central neural structures. These early PD patients are found by screening neuropathy patients for abnormal blood pressure regulation and for damage to the nerves innervating the heart which is early signs of PD. We will describe the patients in detail by looking at α-synuclein in skin, measure the function of the peripheral nervous system with various sophisticated tests and follows the patients for five years to detect both PD and related diseases. Furthermore, we will build a biobank on blood, skin and spinal fluid to define risk factors for developing PD.”

Astrid Juhl Terkelsen is Consultant at the Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, neuromuscular division and head of the Autonomic laboratory evaluating, diagnosing and treating high specialized patients with autonomic neuropathies. Astrid Juhl Terkelsen has been Associate Professor at Department of Clinical Medicine at Aarhus University since 2016.