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Arthur T Knackerbracket has found the following story:
Researchers at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology have discovered a new method of observing changes in the retina which can be seen in Parkinson's before changes in the brain occur and the first symptoms become evident.
Using ophthalmic instruments that are routinely used in[sic] optometrists and eye clinics, the scientists were able to use the new imaging technique to observe these retinal changes at an early stage. This method, published in Acta Neuropathologica Communications, would allow earlier diagnosis of Parkinson's and also could be used to monitor how patients respond to treatment. The technique has already been tested in humans for glaucoma and trials are due to start soon for Alzheimer's.
"This is potentially a revolutionary breakthrough in the early diagnosis and treatment of one of the world's most debilitating diseases," said Professor Francesca Cordeiro, UCL Professor of Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Studies, who led the research. "These tests mean we might be able to intervene much earlier and more effectively treat people with this devastating condition."
Parkinson's disease affects 1 in 500 people and is the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide. Symptoms typically become apparent only once over 70 percent of the brain's dopamine-producing cells have been destroyed. The condition results in muscle stiffness, slowness of movement, tremors and a reduced quality of life.
(Score: 1) by Francis on Monday August 22 2016, @04:14AM
The earlier the detection the better quality data there is to use in research. Being able to identify a cluster of Parkinson's patients only a few years after the fact would be a huge improvement in the study of the disorder as you'd have a greatly improved ability to collect any and all data that might be relevant to causing Parkinson's or that might activate it.
It also means that there's more opportunities to study the early stages of the disorder when it might be possible to slow it's progress or possibly halt it completely.
But yes, it's not clear that early detection would make much of a difference, certainly not with the current generation of drugs and therapies. But, even in the worst case scenario, it would allow people to make sure to get to those bucket list items while they're still doable and try to make the best of the time remaining.