Inflamed tonsils are a clear sign. Of tonsillitis.
Yet, diagnosing Parkinson’s Disease is more problematic, since symptoms such as shaking and impaired balance are related to other illnesses too.
Almost a quarter of false diagnoses, the wrong treatment or medication – this could be changed by a simple cotton bud. In a study led by Manchester University, sebum samples were taken from 500 people with and without Parkinson’s.
Using mass spectrometry methods, 10 chemical compounds in sebum were identified which are higher or lower in people with Parkinson’s.
The test, conducted through a simple swab, leads to a diagnosis which is 85% accurate. It can also be used to track the disease as it progresses.
A spin-off company is planned.
