Could Parkinson's be detected with an eye test?
Researchers from the UCL have identified a novel way to detect Parkinson's in a rat model of the condition.
The findings, published in Acta Neuropathologica Communications and featured on BBC Online, highlight a potential way to diagnose Parkinson's by looking for changes in the retina of the eye.
Looking for changes in Parkinson's
Many people with Parkinson's can wait months, even years for a diagnosis, because currently there is no definitive diagnostic test for the condition.
The lack of a simple test may also be holding back research into new treatments that slow the progression of Parkinson’s as it is hard to measure how effective these treatments are.
We know that some people with Parkinson's experience eye problems, which may be caused by Parkinson's or can be a side effect of Parkinson's medication.
But this research is the first to show that changes in the eye may be key to detecting and monitoring the progression of Parkinson's.
The team, led by Professor Francesca Cordeiro, showed that changes in the brain of a rat model of Parkinson's can also be detected in the retina.
They then used the eye test to show a drug called rosiglitazone may be able to protect the brain in this model.
Urgent need for a simple diagnostic test
Dr Arthur Roach, Director of Research at Parkinson's UK, comments:
"Currently there is no brain scan or blood test that can definitively diagnose Parkinson's – leaving an urgent need for a simple and accurate way of detecting the condition, particularly in its early stages.
"Although the research is yet to be tested on people with Parkinson's, a simple non-invasive test – such as an eye test – could be a significant step forward in the search for treatments that can tackle the underlying causes of the condition rather than masking its symptoms.
"This research complements a Parkinson's UK funded study already underway, which aims to identify Parkinson's bio-markers, which are measurable changes in people with the condition.
"Having a biomarker for Parkinson's would help diagnose Parkinson's earlier, when people are most likely to benefit from the new treatments aimed at slowing progression."