Do not use brain scintigraphic examinations such as brain SPECT (Single Photon Emission Tomography) with dopamine transporter marker (DAT-SCAN) or myocardial examination with Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) as well as positron emission brain tomography (PET) with any radionuclide, for diagnostic confirmation of Parkinson’s disease or to evaluate its progression.

Type of practice

Imaging

Topic Area

Neurology

The finding of a positive brain SPECT (single photon emission tomography) scan with dopamine transporter marker (DAT-SCAN) does not establish a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, which is instead based on the presence of clinical elements that meet the current diagnostic criteria. The test should therefore not be performed to confirm the diagnosis but may be required in selected cases for the differential diagnosis with non-neurodegenerative tremor syndromes where a diagnostic doubt exists. Similarly, myocardial scintigraphy with metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) should not be used at the diagnostic stage but should be reserved in selected cases where there is a diagnostic uncertainty between Parkinson’s disease and another Atypical Parkinsonism (in particular, Multisystem Atrophy). In any case, special care is recommended when interpreting the results of a SPECT examination, considering that concomitant therapies (e.g., antidepressants) or pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes) could distort the examination. Positron Emission Tomography of the brain (PET) with various radionuclides (FDG, F-DOPA) is also not indicated for the diagnostic confirmation of Parkinson’s disease and should only be used if there is a diagnostic doubt to other diseases. None of the above tests is considered useful in assessing the progression of Parkinson’s disease to date. In general, the indication and interpretation of instrumental tests must therefore be considered in the context of each individual patient’s clinical history.

Sources

1. Postuma RB, Berg D, Stern M, Poewe W, Olanow CW, Oertel W, Obeso J, Marek K, Litvan I, Lang AE, Halliday G, Goetz CG, Gasser T, Dubois B, Chan P, Bloem BR, Adler CH, Deuschl G. MDS clinical diagnostic criteria for Parkinson's disease. Mov Disord. 2015; 30:1591-601.
2. Berardelli A et al. EFNS/MDS-ES recommendations for the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Eur J Neurol 2013; 20: 16-34.

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Attention. Please note that these items are provided only for information and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a clinician. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their clinician.