Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects motor functions, is diagnosed by taking a medical history, physical examination, and additional research.

Medical history:

  •  Symptoms of the disease (trembling, stiffness, slowness of movements)
  •  Onset and duration of symptoms
  •  Family history of Parkinson's disease or other neurological diseases
  •  Concomitant diseases and medications taken
  •  Presence of risk factors (e.g. head injury)

Physical examination:

  •  Observation of the patient's movements and gait
  •  Assessment of muscle tone (stiffness)
  •  Checking reflexes and coordination
  •  Speech and writing assessment

Although there is no single test that can definitively confirm Parkinson's disease, the following studies may help in the diagnosis:

1. Neuroimaging:

  •  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain can reveal changes in brain structures affected by Parkinson's disease.
  •  Transcranial sonography (TCS) can reveal the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain.

2. Nuclear medicine:

  •  Positron emission tomography (PET) with dopamine ligand can measure a decrease in dopaminergic activity in the striatum of the brain.
  •  Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with dopamine ligand can also detect loss of dopaminergic neurons.

3. Genetic testing:

  •  Genetic testing can detect gene mutations associated with Parkinson's disease, but it is justified only in certain cases (for example, a family history or early onset of the disease).

4. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS):

  •  TMS can assess the conduction of the corticospinal tract, which is affected by Parkinson's disease.

5. Encephalography

  •  An electroencephalogram (EEG) can reveal changes in brain activity in Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's disease can be similar to other diseases with motor disorders, such as:

  •  Atypical Parkinsonism (progressive supranuclear palsy, multiple systemic atrophy, and Lewy body disease)
  • Tremor caused by medications, alcohol, or anxiety
  •  Essential tremor
  •  Dystonia
  •  Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Accurate diagnosis is crucial to determine optimal treatment and prognosis.