Parkinson's Disease

Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists) and other specialties diagnose people who have Parkinson's disease or related conditions. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in movement disorders have experience evaluating Parkinson's disease and similar conditions, including parkinsonism conditions or movement disorders.

To diagnose Parkinson's disease, your doctor will review your medical history, including your medications, your family medical history and your symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive neurological and physical examination to check for signs of Parkinson's disease. Your doctor sometimes may order tests to rule out other conditions.

Tests may include:

• Computerized tomography (CT scan). A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed, three-dimensional view of your brain.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses powerful radio waves and magnets to create a detailed view of your brain.
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan or single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT). In these tests, a doctor injects you with a small amount of radioactive material and places emission detectors on your brain. PET provides visual images of brain activity. SPECT measures blood flow to various regions of your brain.

Read more about computerized tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scan at MayoClinic.com.