Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Dementia Panel

The Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Dementia Panel examines 35 genes associated with an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions: Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and genetic disorders that cause dementia. Patients identified with a disease-causing change in a gene have an increased risk of developing the associated neurodegenerative disease. Genetic testing may be beneficial in planning and deciding on treatment, psychosocial counseling, research study enrollment, and support programs for caregivers and patients.

 

Testing
Testing is done for patients with a personal or family history suggestive of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. Warning signs of these diseases include abnormal imaging of the brain, difficulty moving or controlling one’s movements, memory loss that interferes with daily life, changes in mood and personality, difficulty having a conversation or completing familiar tasks and confusion with the time or place.