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Demo Question: Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease

Which of the following is a target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Parkinson’s disease?

• Caudate nucleus
• Globus pallidus interna
• Internal capsule
• Subcallosal cingulate
• Vagus nerve

Key Learning Point: The two main sites for deep brain stimulation in Parkinson’s disease are the subthalamic nucleus and globus pallidus interna.

Explanation: DBS is a treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Treatment sites include the Globus pallidus interna and subthalamic nucleus. The subcallosal cingulate was the first target area investigated for DBS for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Vagal nerve stimulation has also been used for TRD. Targeting the anterior limb of the internal capsule is a psychosurgical treatment for refractory OCD and TRD. The caudate nucleus is part of the basal ganglia. Although associated with Parkinson’s disease, it is not a primary treatment site for DBS.