DAT scan for Parkinsons disease usefulness and cost

Posted by gbridg @gbridg, Oct 8, 2025

It's DAT not Cat scan imaging amount of labeled L-Dopa in Brain

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Parkinson's Disease Support Group.

Clinical evaluations are very good when done properly and by a doctor that specializes in Parkinson's and movement disorders. I've read those evaluations are the best indicators. Stanford put out a great video on what the evaluation/exam should look like. just google "Stanford Neurologist Parkinson's disease physical exam" it is very informative
the other thing that is out there is a skin biopsy. I just had this done but will not get results for over a month.
I'm sure @hopeful33250 can provide more info. best of luck

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Profile picture for ichbindck @ichbindck

@lisalucier
My doctor is sure I have Parkinsons based on clinical observations. I have not had any formal testing. Is it necessary? Is it truly definitive

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@ichbindck Diagnosing Parkinson's is a task for a trained neurologist. A movement disorder specialist is best able to make this diagnosis. It is usually based on observation (watching a person walk, symptoms) and ruling out other disorders through testing.

Here is a link to information from the Mayo Clinic website about the ways Parkinson's can be diagnosed:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parkinsons-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376062
What type of doctor diagnosed you with PD? Were there any specific tests to rule out other neurological disorders? I'm thinking of brain MRI, EMG, etc.?

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