MDS 2021 | A standardized multimodal MRI protocol for Parkinsonism

Sofia Reimão, MD, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal, shares a proposed standardized multimodal MRI protocol for the diagnosis of Parkinsonism. The protocol suggests brain MRI should be performed clinically in all patients presenting with parkinsonism when there is doubt about the prognosis. Adopting a standardized protocol in clinical settings can increase diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility. Additionally, standardization facilitates efficient data collection and exchange in research settings. Dr Reimão recommends a 3.0T scanner when available. The proposed MRI acquisition protocol comprises conventional T1 and T2 sequences, neuromelanin-sensitive imaging, 3-D FLAIR imaging, iron-sensitive susceptibility-weighted imaging, and diffusion tensor imaging. Combining these sequences aims to collect the most information possible in a routine clinical setting, allowing differentiation of atypical parkinsonian syndromes and improved patient care. This interview took place during the 2021 International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders.