Symposium 1 covered the spectrum between common and rare movement disorders. Prof. Deuschl spoke on essential tremor, possibly the commonest movement disorder and highlighted diagnostic issues as well as clinical heterogeneity of the condition. Of particular interest was a recent dataset addressing comorbidity, prognostic aspects and new diagnostic criteria using the Bain grading system of spiral drawing.
Prof. Ray-Chaudhuri took on the growing recognition of the impact and importance of non-motor symptoms (NMS) in Parkinson’s disease (PD). He highlighted the involvement of several neurotransmitters in NMS, the role of NMS in prodromal PD, and recent data describing at least 7 different subtypes of PD.
This was followed by a presentation on dystonia by Prof Dietrich. He touched upon the new diagnostic criteria, the wide range of genetic mutations underlying various types of dystonia, and differential diagnosis and management strategies including Botox and DBS treatment therapy.
The final talk was given by Dr. Stamelou who covered the clinical, pathophysiological, neuroimaging, and therapeutic aspects of two rare but important neurodegenerative disorders, such as PSP and MSA. She addressed the issues of the heterogeneity of these conditions, new approaches to imaging techniques, and new clinical trials that are being setup to address treatment of these progressive neurodegenerative conditions.
Anna Sauerbier, MD, UK
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