Parkinson's disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders. It is both chronic, meaning it persists over a long period of time, and progressive, meaning its symptoms grow worse over time. Medical treatment of PD focuses on improving motor symptoms using medications, surgery, and behavior modifications, such as increasing physical activity.
Initial Evaluations in the Parkinson's Clinic will help determine eligibility for other research studies. Initial evaluation may include a blood sample for genetic testing, smell test, memory test, and a neurological evaluation. No investigational treatments will be offered during the initial evaluation in the Parkinson's Clinic. Eligible patients will be asked to provide a copy of their medical record or letter of referral from a physician that includes a summary of pertinent medical information related to the neurological condition. This would include when the condition was first noted, how it was presented, the current status, and listing of treatments/medications and their effect. Other research studies for which the patient might qualify will be discussed after the initial evaluation is complete.
If you are interested in participating in one of our research studies, please contact and submit your medical record/letter of referral to:
Myriam Martinez
Parkinson Clinic
Office of the Clinical Director
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
CRC Room 5-1469 NE
10 Center Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
Phone: (301) 496-6388 or 800-362-3479
Fax: (301) 496-6609
PDclinic@ninds.nih.gov
OR
Patient Recruitment and Public Liaison Office
Toll-free at:1-800-411-1222
TTY: 1-866-411-1010
Parkinson’s Disease Clinic Research Team at NIH:
