MDS Podcast

Professors Kailash Bhatia and Günther Deuschl, experts in neurology and movement disorders, delve into essential tremor, framing it as a syndrome that acknowledges its clinical diversity. They dissect the new classification's implications and common misunderstandings surrounding diagnoses. The duo also discusses how to effectively communicate the diagnosis to patients and family members, as well as the relationship between action tremors and Parkinson's risk. With an engaging debate on the future of the term 'essential tremor,' their insights are illuminating for anyone interested in movement disorders.

Growing evidence suggests a contributory role of tau protein in the pathogenesis of Huntington's disease. In this episode, Dr. Eduardo de Pablo-Fernández discusses the potential role of skin tau quantification as a biomarker for Huntington's disease with Dr. Jaime Kulisevsky and Dr. Iñigo Ruiz-Barrio. The authors discuss the results of the recent study correlating skin tau quantification with clinical and radiological data, and the role of skin tau in defining HD subtypes. Read the article.

Join neurologist Petra Schwingenschuh from the Medical University of Graz as she unpacks the complexities of diagnosing tremors. She emphasizes the importance of thorough patient histories and observation techniques. The discussion highlights innovative assessment methodologies, including structured examination scales. Schwingenschuh dives into the nuanced evaluation of tremor asymmetry and addresses the intriguing world of functional tremors, offering key insights for accurate diagnosis.

Dr. Sara Schaefer interviews Dr. Jaclyn Martindale on stigma in the experiences of individuals with pediatric movement disorders and tic disorders. They discuss the reasons behind stigma, types of stigma, and ways that stigma is perpetuated and mitigated in this special episode for World Movement Disorders Day 2024.

Dr. Indu Subramanian shares her view on stigma affecting people with Parkinson's disease, along with some practical tips on how to fight it as doctors and as a society.

Dr. Natasha Fothergill-Misbah discusses stigma in movement disorders with Dr. Sara Schaefer, including the origins, types, and consequences of stigma, and how stigma may be perpetuated and combatted around the world.

Dr. Rick Helmich tells us about the role of functional MRI in understanding the circuits of tremor. The conversation starts with a description of his most famous theory on the pathophysiology of Parkinsonism tremor ('dimmer-switch' hypothesis) and moves towards other forms of tremors, such as dystonic, Holmes and essential and even physiological tremor.

Dr. Anna Latorre is interviewed by Dr. Sara Schaefer about her study exploring the role of transcutaneous spinal cord simulation for suppression of postural tremor in essential tremor, including the potential pathophysiological mechanisms and implications for therapeutic use. Journal CME is available until October 21, 2025 Read the article.

In the introductory episode for the Tremor Special Series, Dr. Elan Louis tells us about the epidemiology of tremor as well as patients' and health care providers' awareness (or lack thereof). He guides us through his journey from when his mentor suggested that he'd look into familial essential tremor to the most important discoveries of the last two decades. Finally he gives us a glimpse of what's about to come and why tremor matters.

Prof. Alessio Di Fonzo, Director of the Movement Disorders Unit in Milano, discusses his award-winning research on harmonizing genetic testing for early-onset Parkinson's disease. He highlights challenges in interpreting genetic variants and the need for continuous updates in classification. Di Fonzo emphasizes the prevalence of GBA1 mutations in patients diagnosed before 40 and the importance of collaborative networks among health institutes. His insights aim to improve patient care through unified genetic interpretation and enhanced diagnostic techniques.