Clinical Rating Scales and Quantitative Assessments of Movement Disorders

Abstract

This article reviews scales that have been developed for, validated in, and/or frequently used across multiple movement disorders with a focus on assessment of motor and nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson disease. Rating scales used in other disease states include those for essential tremor, dystonia (generalized dystonia, cervical dystonia, and blepharospasm), Tourette syndrome, Huntington disease, tardive dyskinesia, Wilson disease, ataxia, and functional movement disorders. Key features of each scale as well as cited criticisms and limitations of each scale are also discussed. Lastly, the article briefly discusses the emerging role of digital assessment tools (both wearable devices and digital interface applications).

Keywords: Dystonia; Essential tremor; Huntington disease; Parkinson disease; Rating scales; Wearables.