Pathologically there is nerve cell loss in the melanin-containing cells in the brainstem and a corresponding reduction in dopamine levels in the corpus striatum.
Lewy bodies are present in the substantia nigra and locus coeruleus.
Has a welfare department that responds to the needs of people with Parkinson's disease and their relatives. Regional officers give guidance on setting up selfhelp groups. Young Alert Parkinsonians Partners and Relatives is a specialist interest group for younger people with Parkinson's disease.