Peter,
>(Through Camilla) I would like to ask whether anyone knows if autopsy
>examination of the brain can distinguish_definitely_between idiopathic
>PD and the various forms of PD Plus? There seems to be some difficulty
>in making the distinctions in life. Is this something, like the definite
>diagnosis of Alzheimer's, that can only be done _for sure_ post mortem?
>Just wondering--- Peter Flintermann, Oxford , OH
As far as I know, autopsy is the most certain method of diagnosis, through
examination of brain slices etc. Factors are presence of "Lewy Bodies",
areas damaged within the brain etc.
Over the past few years people have been diagnosed with PD Plus etc. on the
strength of a brain scan, but I would think the only _for sure_ way is in
autopsy.
Most experienced PD specialists would probably be able to make an eductated
guess just based on observation, although not to a level of certainty
required to make a formal diagnosis. Generally a poor reaction to L-Dopa
treatments is a sign that it isn't normal PD.
DISCLAIMER - I'm not a doctor, or anything like. But I have seen the full
cycle of dignosis, treatment, autopsy :-(
Simon
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