Recent advances have allowed for the early detection of misfolded and aggregated alpha-synuclein protein, a key feature in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies. Two research groups have proposed a shift from clinical to biological definitions of these diseases. The NSD-ISSA team suggests defining neuronal alpha-synuclein disease (NSD) based on the presence of pathologic alpha-synuclein in cerebrospinal fluid. Meanwhile, the SynNeurGe model classifies PD based on three biological factors. Both groups acknowledge the need for further research and validation of their proposed classification systems. While a biological definition may improve diagnostic accuracy and prognosis, caution is advised in implementing these changes given potential challenges and implications.
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Major Shift in the Clinical Definition of PD Triggers Debate
