Diagnostic and Assessment Tools

In this chapter, we describe the multitude of available diagnostic tools that can be used as needed in the objective assessment of symptoms in gut PD. Some of these tools may not be potentially available at a general gastroenterological practice setting, and a referral to specialized centers may be needed if an early evaluation has been unsuccessful in identifying the cause of the patients’ symptoms. In many instances, the tests described may also be used as tools to monitor disease severity and activity, guiding the clinician in modifying their approach to patients.