Tracking Motor Progression and Device-Aided Therapy Eligibility in Parkinson's Disease.

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ObjectiveTo characterise the progression of motor symptoms and identify eligibility for device-aided therapies in Parkinson's disease, using both the 5-2-1 criteria and a refined clinical definition, while examining differences across genetic subgroups.MethodsWe analysed 1205 individuals with sporadic and genetic Parkinson's disease from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (mean follow-up: 5.6 ± 4.3 years). Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated time to meeting the 5-2-1 criteria (five or more daily levodopa doses, two or more hours of OFF time, or one or more hours of troublesome dyskinesia) and a stricter definition of eligibility for device-aided therapy based on disabling, medication-refractory symptoms and/or tremor. In the sporadic Parkinson's disease subgroup (n = 943), we assessed therapy initiation and clinical suitability, including potential contraindications. Genetic subgroup analyses explored differences in progression, eligibility timing and treatment uptake.ResultsAmong individuals with sporadic Parkinson's disease, 257 (27.3%) met the 5-2-1 criteria, with 25%, 50% and 75% doing so by 5.3, 8.2 and 10.7 years, respectively. A total of 176 (18.6%) met stricter eligibility criteria, with 50% doing so by 12 years. Only 25% of those meeting the 5-2-1 criteria initiated device-aided therapy within 6.8 years. Most had no contraindications. Deep brain stimulation was the most used therapy. GBA and SNCA carriers met criteria earlier. LRRK2 carriers were more likely to initiate therapy, while PRKN carriers were less likely to meet eligibility thresholds.InterpretationEligibility for device-aided therapy is common but underutilised. These findings highlight missed opportunities and support earlier, genotype-informed treatment planning in Parkinson's disease.

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