← Return to DAT scan for Parkinsons disease usefulness and cost

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Profile picture for emmit @emmit

@ladylawyer RE: Dat Scan reports. I've only had one Dat Scan as I am very new to this. However, my report had more in it than just 5 words or "Normal". My concern is there is more to a Dat scan than just the shape of the cells--which is all my report mentioned. even though there was a clear distinction between the two cells. When I asked my neurologist, his response was--the people that write these reports know what they are doing. so clearly, he didn't know how to read the actual scans -- he was just simply reading the report narrative--which I can do too. He then said he doesn't need to see me again unless there are drastic changes. Apparently, there is not much they can do other than prescribe meds for this.
My symptoms point to early stages of PD. I have an appt. with a movement disorder specialist next month. In the meantime, I have done PT and OT to work on strength for my right side. and exercise is key to keeping the strength up to deal with the tremors.

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Replies to "@ladylawyer RE: Dat Scan reports. I've only had one Dat Scan as I am very new..."

@emmit I share your frustration. My neurologist said, “you don’t have Parkinson’s based on the Datscat so come back in 3 months.” She has prescribed Nortriptyline, which seems to help. Although it is usually prescribed as an anti-depressant, there is some evidence that it slows/prevents protein build up in the brain. There are some studies on this issue conducted by Michael J Fox foundation. My symptoms also point to PD and are very sporadic. I have good days and bad days. I will follow your lead and find a movement disorder specialist. I assume neurologists have specializations and I think both of us need one that specializes in Parkinson’s and/or movement disorders.