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α-synuclein test: A definitive diagnosis for PD?
Anyone had the α-synuclein test? This is a very recent test for PD mentioned on Michael Fox PD website as a possible breakthrough on definitive PD diagnosis. It is a protein found in spinal fluid and blood.
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UCSF Movement Center did skin biopsies (neck, thigh and ankle), sent to a lab in Arizona, to determine what I had. I tested positive for MSA-C. I already had most of the symptoms. I read the test also works for PD.
My husband had this and it was negative yet they are still thinking he has Parkinsons.
@ichbindck
My husband has had this test twice as a participant in Michael Fox Parkinson’s research. He has alpha-synuclein in his spinal fluid and other PD predictive markers, but as yet he does not show Parkinson’s disease. I believe it is felt to be definitive, but no one can predict actual start of Parkinsons, I think. I am hopeful my husband does not ever have Parkinson’s, but he might. Are you positive for this or just inquiring or sharing information?
Thank you. I asked because I'm thinking of getting test. I have all the symptoms and really getting bad. Will see Movement Disorder Clinic in 6 weeks.
@ichbindck
Movement checks are also part of the Parkinson's research. If you have the alpha-synuclein test, be sure it is done by someone with alot of experience. My husband's first was great, the second failed and was painful, the third was done by an experienced person and was ok. Experience matters a great deal for this procedure. His punctures were over a three year period. If you have symptoms, I hope you have a specialist treating you and not a general practitioner. 6 weeks for the movement specialist? Are you in Canada or UK? That is such a long time to wait. The sooner you get meds, probably the better if you have symptoms. I have a friend with PD and l-dopa is helping her. Good luck