DaTscan, short for Dopamine Transporter scan, is a specialised diagnostic imaging technique that we use primarily to assess movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. This non-invasive procedure gives us insight into the function of dopamine, a neurotransmitter key to the co-ordination of movement and other brain functions.

DaTscan involves the intravenous administration of small amounts of a radioactive tracer. This tracer binds selectively to dopamine transporters in the brain, which are responsible for the reuptake of dopamine after its release. By binding to the transporters, the tracer effectively marks the areas of the brain where dopamine is being actively used.

After the injection, images of the brain are taken with a special camera called a gamma camera. These images show the distribution and density of the dopamine transporters and provide valuable information about the integrity of the dopamine system. Areas of reduced dopamine transporter activity may indicate degeneration or dysfunction of dopaminergic neurons, which is characteristic of conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or other PD syndromes.

DaTscan results can help us confirm or exclude diagnoses, guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression over time.

In summary, DaTscan is a powerful tool for the clinical assessment of conditions that affect dopamine function, providing us and healthcare providers with valuable insights into the neurobiological basis of movement disorders.