About Parkinsonian Syndromes
Parkinsonian syndromes (PS) are a group of disorders that have disruption in movement or motor function as a common feature.
These disorders may occur when there is a loss of the chemical dopamine in the brain. Dopamine affects many brain functions, including behavior, thought, attention, sleep, motivation, and movement.
- When the body has a dopamine deficiency, the brain may not be getting enough of the dopamine it needs to perform certain functions. One of the problems caused by a dopamine deficiency is the inability of the brain to control movement and motor functions. Signs and symptoms consistent with parkinsonian syndromes may be a result of dopamine deficiency.
- There are different types of parkinsonian syndromes. One of the most common disorders is Parkinson’s disease, also known as PD, which affects an estimated one million Americans. Other types of parkinsonian syndromes include multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy.
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- Tremor (shaking)
- Slowness of movement
- Rigidity (stiffness)
- Difficulty with balance
- Small, cramped handwriting
- Stiff facial expression
- Shuffling walk
- Muffled speech
- Depression
It is important to note that symptoms may be different from patient to patient. Many patients experience some symptoms and not others. The progression of the disease, including how fast or how slowly the disease worsens, may vary on an individual basis.
- Diagnosis of parkinsonian syndromes can be difficult. The symptoms can also be the signs of other disorders, and there is currently no definitive FDA-approved blood test or imaging procedure that can confirm the presence of these disorders. For example, the symptoms of PS are also very similar to the signs of another movement disorder called essential tremor. Essential tremor, however, is not associated with a dopamine deficiency, whereas parkinsonian syndromes are.
- DaTscan can be used in patients who have symptoms of a parkinsonian syndrome. When used in addition to other tests and clinical assessment, it can help differentiate between essential tremor and parkinsonian syndrome. Although DaTscan is not used to diagnose these disorders, doctors are able to take a picture of a part of the brain (called a SPECT scan) to help identify whether or not a dopamine deficiency is present. The findings of a DaTscan test may be included in addition to a clinical assessment to help determine the diagnosis.
- There are effective treatments for the symptoms of parkinsonian syndromes. Early and accurate diagnosis, potentially including imaging as part of the diagnostic process, can help determine the most effective treatment plan. If you suspect you or someone you know may have one of these disorders, it is important to see a doctor who can provide appropriate guidance.
If you have any questions, please speak to your doctor. For additional information, please see the DaTscan Full Prescribing Information.
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