skip to main content

Parkinsonian gait falls — DGM MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateFallsParkinsonian gait fallsDGM

A 77-year-old man has fallen forwards several times over six months. His wife reports smaller handwriting and slow dressing. Examination shows bradykinesia, rigidity and a shuffling gait. Current medicines include amlodipine and simvastatin. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Parkinson's disease

Falls with bradykinesia, rigidity, micrographia and shuffling gait suggest Parkinson's disease. Cerebellar ataxia causes limb and gait ataxia, motor neurone disease causes progressive weakness, BPPV causes brief vertigo, and functional neurological disorder would require positive functional signs. Early falls can also suggest atypical parkinsonism, so specialist assessment is important.

Reference: NICE NG71; NICE NG249