Computer analysis of handwriting dynamics during dopamimetic tests in Parkinson's disease

Studies of dynamic descriptors characteristic of Parkinsonian handwriting have clearly shown potential in identifying various stages of Parkinsonism. This study compares stroke-level analyses of handwritten samples during apomorphine and levodopa "challenge" tests. Six patients with Parkinsonism, diagnosed with or suspected of having Parkinson's Disease generated ordinary handwriting patterns before medication and once again at peak motor performance, after doses of apomorphine or levodopa had been administered. Results show that movement efficiency parameters in addition to standard dynamic handwriting parameters are indicative of positive responses to dopamimetic drugs. Furthermore, it is observed that parameters dependent on higher processing fend to be unaffected during dopamimetic drug cycles.