Open Access
American Research Journal of Medicine and Surgery
ISSN (Online): 2379-8955
DOI: 10.46568/arjms
The Utility of Positron Emission Tomography Scanning in Parkinson’s Disease
1B.Sc (Hons) MBBCh (Hons) MRCP (UK) M.Sc (Dist) - Specialist Registrar in Diabetes Mellitus & Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine, Glan Clwyd Hospital,
2Consultant in Diabetes Mellitus & Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Rhyl, Denbighsire, UK LL18 5UJ
Abstract
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) can visualise progression of Parkinsonian pathophysiology from early- through to end-stage disease generating objective quantitative longitudinal data, which enables assessing responses to treatment. The utility of PET scanning in the management of Parkinson's Disease is further exemplified by: refining the differential diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease as a distinct neurochemical entity; monitoring the efficacy of foetal nigral tissue transplantation; assessing the effects of surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation; and guiding clinical management by studying the effects of drug-induced adverse effects. This concise review critically considers the role of PET scanning in the management of Parkinson’s Disease.
Keywords
PET Scan; Parkinson’s Disease; Stem Cell Therapy; Radioactive Tracers; Dopamine Receptors
