Medical Health Encyclopedia

Later Symptoms. In later stages of Parkinson's disease, the symptoms are usually unmistakable, and the problem can often be diagnosed using simple physical tests and a medical and personal history.

Imaging Techniques

Imaging techniques, such as computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron-emission tomographic (PET) may be very useful in ruling out disorders with similar symptoms, such as progressive supranuclear palsy. They are not usually necessary when physical symptoms of Parkinson's disease are obvious.

CT stands for computerized tomography. In this procedure, a thin X-ray beam is rotated around the area of the body to be visualized. Using very complicated mathematical processes called algorithms, the computer is able to generate a 3-D image of a section through the body. CT scans are very detailed and provide excellent information for the physician.

Click the icon to see an image of an MRI of the brain.

Research is ongoing to determine how well imaging tests can detect early and late stages of Parkinson's and allow physicians to gauge disease progression and effectiveness of treatment. Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and PET, the best neuroimaging techniques available today, are playing a vital role in Parkinson's research as well. By enabling the detection of small changes in brain function early on, they are paving the way for studies of neuroprotective agents. Before these imaging methods were available, there was no adequate way to determine if neuroprotective drugs could slow the progression of early disease.

Ruling out Causes of Parkinsonism and Diseases that Mimic Parkinson's Disease

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When symptoms resemble Parkinson's disease but have an identifiable cause, the syndrome is known as parkinsonism. People who have parkinsonism, but not Parkinson's disease, often have additional neurologic symptoms. A number of conditions can also have similar or some of these symptoms.