The evaluation of Parkinson's disease begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with Parkinson's disease may include:

• Muscle stiffness
• Loss of facial expression
• Slow speech
• Difficulty walking:
• Slow
• Shuffling of the feet
• Stooped, stiff posture
• Tremor while at rest
• Very slow movement of the limbs
• Drooling
• Confusion

Tests that may be used to evaluate Parkinson's disease include:

• Serum ceruloplasmin
• CT scanning of the brain
• MRI scan of the brain
• PET scanning of the brain:
• Can detect changes in brain metabolism and activity.