Neuroimaging in Parkinson Disease

Abstract

Over many decades, neuroimaging which included structural, functional and molecular modalities—have provided invaluable insights into the mechanisms underlying Parkinson disease (PD). These studies have shown changes in brain structure and metabolic activity. Although it is now considered to be complex, still neuroimaging modalities are recommended for routine use in clinical practice. Special sequences such as susceptibility weighted and proton density sequences are recommended for characterization. Now, the world is switching more towards the deep brain stimulation so the neuroimaging also helps in pretreatment planning and post treatment complications assessments. This chapter discusses the radiological anatomy, sequencing and imaging appearances. It will also discuss new approaches with potential applicability to clinical practice.