Parkinson’s disease is diagnosed primarily by symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam.[1] Family medical history will also be reviewed, since a first-degree relative with Parkinson's disease increases the chance of diagnosis.[2] There are currently no available tests for Parkinson’s disease. However, biomarkers that may be able to diagnose the disease before symptoms appear could be on the horizon.[3] To be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, an individual needs to have parkinsonism, which is defined as bradykinesia (slowness of movement) along with muscle rigidity, tremors at rest, or both.[4] In cases where diagnosis of Parkinson’s isn’t conclusive based on a physical exam, an imaging technique may be used to identify neuronal changes in the brain that are specific for Parkinson’s disease.[5]
How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed?
Written by:
Fact-checked
by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Parkinson's disease is diagnosed primarily through symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam, with a focus on identifying parkinsonism, which includes bradykinesia and either muscle rigidity or resting tremors. Although there are currently no definitive tests for the disease, imaging techniques may be used in inconclusive cases, and family medical history is also considered due to its relevance in diagnosis.