Clinical Scales

An in-person neurological exam using standardized clinical scales remains the gold-standard for diagnosis and assessment of PD. Clinical features of PD are assessed using scales that are specialized for PD, but some features, such as psychiatric and cognitive symptoms, are also routinely assessed using scales developed for general diagnostic use (Leentjens et al., 2008; Fernandez et al., 2008; Emre et al., 2007; Schrag et al., 2007; Ravina et al., 2007).

Specialized diagnostic scales for assessing the presence and progression of PD include the Hoehn and Yahr Staging of Parkinson's Disease, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living Scale.