Parkinson's disease has been linked to exposure to which trace element?

• A. Mercury
• B. Manganese
• C. Selenium
• D. Zinc

Answer: (B)

Exposure to manganese is classically linked to a parkinsonian syndrome, known as manganism. Chronic inhalation or high exposure in industries like welding, mining, and battery production leads to manganese accumulation in the basal ganglia, especially the globus pallidus. This disrupts dopamine-related signaling and produces tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia, often with dystonia and psychiatric symptoms. Unlike idiopathic Parkinson's disease, manganism can be less responsive to levodopa and has a characteristic MRI finding of T1 shortening in the globus pallidus. The other elements listed are not typically associated with this parkinsonian picture.