Early Recognition and Diagnosis of Parkinson Disease and Ongoing Assessments

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is diagnosed when patients meet motor symptom criteria (bradykinesia plus tremor or rigidity). However, patients may demonstrate prodromal nonmotor symptoms 5-20 years prior to diagnosis. While motor symptoms are of concern, patients often consider nonmotor symptoms to be just as bothersome. In this brief CME activity, diagnostic criteria and assessment tools are described.

From the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center of Boca Raton, Florida.