Case Definitions and Data Sources for NNCSS Parkinson Disease Surveillance

What are the most suitable methods for national Parkinson disease (PD) surveillance in the United States via the National Neurological Conditions Surveillance System (NNCSS)?This systematic review of 156 articles found that case definitions varied widely due to the PD diagnostic process involving differentiating PD from other parkinsonisms and () code challenges. Evaluation identified claims as the most appropriate data source type, and 2 case definitions, one prioritizing sensitivity and the other specificity, were selected to produce an estimate range, preventing a false sense of precision.These findings suggest foundational components for NNCSS’s national PD surveillance and expansion to other neurological conditions.

Corresponding Authors: Shawna L. Mercer, MSc, PhD, National Neurological Conditions Surveillance System, Inform and Disseminate Division, Office of Public Health Data, Science, and Technology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, Atlanta, GA 30333 (smercer@cdc.gov); and Kelly N. Hogan, MPH, Guidehouse Inc Atlanta, 5170 Peachtree Rd, Chamblee, GA 30341 (qgc4@cdc.gov).

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