Microwave Monitoring of Parkinson Disease Using a Realistic Human Head Model

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a widespread neurode-generative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons from the substantia nigra, causing bradykinesia, tremors, rigidity, and postural instability. In this paper, we present a differential microwave imaging study (MWI) for early-stage PD monitoring that uses the dielectric properties of the basal ganglia, particularly the thalamus. The simulations are carried out using two scenarios: one is based on studying the sensitivity of a realistic human head model. The other is the study of differential microwave imaging to monitor the PD based on the dopamine level changes in the basal ganglia. The MWI system contains 24 printed flexible antennas with a custom-made matching medium covering the head model. The obtained results demonstrate that small variations in dielectric properties within the human head, in particular the thalamus, can be detected, which can be used to monitor Parkinson's disease in a very early stage.