Imaging and atypical parkinsonism

Newman, E. and Kennedy, P. (2015) Imaging and atypical parkinsonism. Advances in Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, 14(6), pp. 5-7.

Abstract

The spectrum of parkinsonian syndromes is wide and, due to the lack of specific biomarkers, their diagnosis remains largely clinical. Disorders that are most commonly referred to as ‘atypical parkinsonism’ comprise progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), multiple system atrophy (MSA), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). The characteristic features of these disorders are well recognised. However, these features may be absent or ambiguous at initial diagnosis and the clinician may be uncertain about the L-dopa response. Many atypical parkinsonism cases initially resemble idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD).<p></p> Furthermore, clinicopathological studies have suggested varying and overlapping phenotypes between these disorders. Early diagnostic accuracy is not only important for patients and their families, particularly with respect to prognosis, but also imperative for researchers entering patients into clinical studies. Identification of patients in the pre-symptomatic phase is also essential for evaluation of potential disease modifying agents. There has been much discussion regarding abnormal imaging findings in atypical parkinsonism, but the question arises as to how useful these are in clinical practice .In this brief article we will outline how structural and functional imaging can aid the diagnosis of atypical parkinsonism.<p></p>

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Newman, Dr Edward and Kennedy, Professor Peter
• Authors: Newman, E., and Kennedy, P.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
• Journal Name: Advances in Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation
• Publisher: ACNR
• ISSN: 1473-9348