Clinical Review

Early Parkinsonism: Distinguishing Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease from Other Syndromes


 

References

[59].

Final Thoughts

Despite the challenges involved, accurate and early diagnosis of IPD is essential for optimal patient education, counseling, and treatment. Careful attention to the initial presentation and examination may be all that is required for diagnosis in typical cases. In atypical cases, brain MRI to evaluate for other diseases or DaTscan may be helpful adjunctive tests. As research advances over the coming years, it is likely that additional imaging or fluid biomarkers will become available to assist us with the diagnosis of IPD (and related disorders) in the early stages. Until then, clinicians must remain highly vigilant in their efforts to make these often challenging clinical diagnoses.

Corresponding author: Leslie J. Cloud, MD, MSc, 6605 West Broad St., Ste. C, Richmond, VA 23230, lcloud@vcu.edu.

Financial disclosures: None.

Pages

Next Article: