Digital health in presymptomatic diseases

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Digital Health

Background:

• Consumer electronics (smartphones, tablets) possess advanced sensors.
• These sensors can detect subtle neurological impairments in functions like motricity, cognition, and eye movements.
• Early detection of neurological diseases is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the use of technology for enhancing clinical neurological examinations.
• To assess the evidence for preclinical neurological disease detection using consumer devices.
• To explore applications in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on sensor-based neurological assessment.
• Analysis of studies reporting subtle impairments detectable by consumer devices.
• Discussion of technological integration in clinical practice.

Main Results:

• Numerous studies show subtle impairments in fine motricity, eye movements, and cognition detectable via sensors.
• Voice and speech features also exhibit detectable changes.
• Technology can augment clinician examination skills for neurological assessments.

Conclusions:

• Consumer device sensors offer potential for early, preclinical neurological disease diagnosis.
• This approach could lead to earlier therapeutic interventions and better patient outcomes.
• Further research is needed to address limitations in scientific evidence and practical implementation.