Movement disorders

Abstract Clinical diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is straightforward with classic presentation, but accurate distinction from secondary parkinsonisms and neurodegenerative diseases not associated with nigrostriatal neurodegeneration may be difficult in the early phase of the disease. Imaging of the dopaminergic system using single-photon emission computed tomography or positron emission tomography is useful in the diagnostic work-up of these conditions. Magnetic resonance imaging is routinely performed in patients with movement disorders in order to exclude secondary causes of the disease and collect additional pieces of information, which may aid in the diagnosis of atypical parkinsonisms. Transcranial sonography may contribute in the detection of individuals in the premotor phases of PD. Here, we summarize the role of neuroimaging techniques to support the clinical diagnosis in patients with parkinsonism. The potential of imaging technology in elucidating the physiopathology of parkinsonian diseases is also highlighted