Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Which nervous disorder is characterized by a lack of the neurotransmitter dopamine?

1. Alzheimer's disease

2. Epilepsy

3. Parkinson's disease

4. Multiple sclerosis

The correct answer is: Parkinson's disease

The condition characterized by a deficiency of the neurotransmitter dopamine is Parkinson's disease. This neurodegenerative disorder primarily affects movement control and is associated with symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance issues. The loss of dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra leads to the hallmark motor symptoms seen in individuals with Parkinson's. Dopamine is crucial for transmitting signals that coordinate smooth and controlled movements. When its levels are insufficient, it disrupts these signals, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of the disease. Understanding the role of dopamine in the nervous system is essential for recognizing the pathophysiology of Parkinson's and differentiating it from other disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis, which involve different mechanisms and neurotransmitter systems.