MDS 2023 | Controversies surrounding the definition and staging of Parkinson’s disease

Francisco Cardoso, MD, PhD, FAAN, The Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding the definition and staging of Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders. Two approaches to diagnosis can be described: the classical method, which relies on clinical findings, and the more recent emphasis on biological aspects. Shifting the focus towards biology has sparked debate, with concerns raised about neglecting clinical findings and oversimplifying the diagnosis based on limited knowledge. Prof. Cardoso highlights the importance of considering other biological factors beyond alpha-synuclein in Parkinson’s disease development and recommends caution and further testing of proposals before widespread acceptance. This interview took place at the 2023 International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders in Copenhagen, Denmark.

These works are owned by Magdalen Medical Publishing (MMP) and are protected by copyright laws and treaties around the world. All rights are reserved.