Parkinson's Disease and Lewy Body Disease Imaging Study - Parkinson's with Dementia or Lewy Body Diagnosis

STUDY BASICS

Are you 40 to 85 years old? Are you diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease with Dementia or Lewy Body Disease (Dementia with Lewy Bodies)? You may be eligible for a research study on a new brain imaging marker with potential to aid in early detection and the progression of Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Disease. Compensation provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

The purpose of this brain imaging research study is to help us learn more about the functioning of the energy system of cells in the brain, termed “mitochondrial activity”.  Researchers have shown that people with certain conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies have a decrease in mitochondrial function. It is thought that this could be one of the earliest changes in the brain cells of people with these types of diseases. We will compare images from participants with these types of diseases to images from participants who do not have these conditions.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• 40-85 years old
• Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease with Dementia or Lewy Body Disease (Dementia with Lewy Bodies)
• Able and willing to complete MRI and PET scanning

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Three visits 

• The first visit will be to discuss the study in more detail, to obtain your written consent, and administer a short memory test to see if you are eligible. If you are eligible, we will ask you to complete questionnaires and undergo a brief neurological movement exam.
• An MRI of your brain will be obtained on the second visit.
• The final visit will be for the PET scan. It may be possible in some cases to combine visits.