MRI With Parkinson's Disease

There is no specific test for Parkinson’s disease. For this reason, it can be very difficult to diagnose. Doctors must instead observe patients for symptoms of Parkinson’s and rule out other diseases. One of the tools they use is magnetic resource imaging (MRI scan).

Function

• An MRI scan produces images of the brain by using magnetic fields and radio waves.

Benefits

• A doctor may order an MRI scan if she is not convinced a patient’s symptoms are caused by Parkinson’s. MRI scans are often used to rule out stroke or brain tumors, which can produce the same symptoms as Parkinson’s disease.

Symptoms

• A patient may be exhibit symptoms such as: slowed motion, rigid muscles, stooped posture, poor balance, speech changes, loss of automatic movements or dementia.

Diagnosis

• A patient must have at least two primary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease to receive a diagnosis. One of these symptoms is resting tremor.

Treatment

• There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but medications or surgery may be used to lessen symptoms. It is vital for a diagnosis to be made so patients may begin treatment.