Case Definitions and Data Sources for NNCSS Parkinson Disease Surveillance: A Systematic Review
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By
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Christine D. Esper
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Kelly N. Hogan
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Purni Abeysekara
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Kasey Nichole Smith
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Tenbroeck G. Smith
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Shawna L. Mercer
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June 8, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Systematic Review of Case Definitions and Data Sources for Surveillance of Parkinson Disease in the NNCSS
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
| Condition | Parkinson Disease (PD) |
| Key Mechanisms | Neurodegenerative condition with overlapping clinical features with other parkinsonisms. |
| Target Population | US residents, particularly males and older adults. |
| Care Setting | Population-based analyses and public health surveillance. |
Key Highlights
- Diagnosis of PD can be challenging, with up to 20% of diagnoses potentially incorrect.
- Estimated nearly 700,000 US residents are living with PD.
- No national public health surveillance system for PD currently exists.
- The NNCSS aims to facilitate research on neurological conditions including PD.
- Key attributes for public health surveillance systems include accuracy, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis based on thorough history and clinical examination.
Management
- Use of standardized criteria to assess data source types for surveillance.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Tracking national trends over time to inform research priorities.
Risks
- Risk of misclassification from overlapping conditions.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals diagnosed with Parkinson Disease.
Focus on identifying robust estimates and tracking treatment and support needs.
Clinical Best Practices
- Utilize administrative data for population-based analyses.
- Assess case definitions for suitability and risk of bias.
- Follow PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews.
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