For most people with Parkinson's, there is not a single genetic mutation that causes Parkinson's, but researchers have identified several genetic mutations that increase Parkinson's risk. Many people, with and without Parkinson's, are interested in learning whether they carry these mutations. But thinking about genetic testing can raise various questions and concerns. Your doctor and a genetic counselor can help.
Rachel Dolhun, MD, movement disorder specialist and vice president of medical communications at The Michael J. Fox Foundation, discusses how and why genetic testing is done in Parkinson's, and how genetic counselors can answer your questions and explain your results.
The "Ask the MD" series is intended as an educational resource for people with Parkinson's and their loved ones. Please consult with your personal healthcare provider to address individual medical questions.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research is dedicated to finding a cure for Parkinson's disease through an aggressively funded research agenda and to ensuring the development of improved therapies for those living with Parkinson's today. [ Ссылка ]
We gratefully acknowledge the Steering Committee members of our Patient Disease Education Consortium and The Albert B. Glickman Parkinson's Disease Education Program, whose sponsorship allows us to create and distribute materials, while preserving our track record of efficiency in stewarding donor-raised contributions for maximum impact on Parkinson's drug development. Sponsorship support does not influence MJFF's content perspective or panelist selection.
