Transcranial Sonography for the Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease: Cost-effectiveness Revision

Abstract

The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is based mainly on clinical criteria and is assisted by support methods. A review of cost-effectiveness of transcranial sonography was conducted as a diagnostic test for Parkinson's disease. They analyzed three systematic reviews with meta analysis, five clinical practice guidelines and four coverage policies. No studies were found that evaluate the therapeutic impact and safety of transcranial sonography in Parkinson's disease. With a moderate quality of evidence, a lower net benefit from the diagnosis was observed, given that it only allows the differentiation of two large groups: degenerative parkinsonism and non-degenerative entities. The cost-effectiveness and the budget impact are uncertain. Its consideration within the diagnostic algorithm in clinical practice guidelines is heterogeneous. The consulted health financing agents do not include it among their coverage policies. With the information available it is not possible to make a recommendation for its routine use.

Keywords:

Parkinson's disease – Parkinsonian disorders – Essential tremor – Sonography – Substantia nigra – Diagnosis – Cost-effectiveness analysis – Review.