Parallel Session 2202

Genetic Testing in Movement Disorders: A Practical Guide for Optimizing Test Selection and Report Interpretation

Saturday, February 14, 2026
14:30 - 16:30 | River Oaks Room

In this session, the faculty will provide practical tools for applying genetic testing in the movement disorders clinic. Participants will learn the capabilities and limitations of different testing technologies, recognize barriers to access in the Americas, learn how to select the most appropriate genetic tests based on patient phenotype and underlying genetic mechanisms, and gain skills to interpret genetic reports and apply genetic counseling practices.

Chairs:

Mario Cornejo-Olivas, Peru
Ignacio Fernandez Mata, USA

Presenters:

What Movement Disorder Specialists Should Know About Genetic Testing
Niccolo Mencacci, USA

Optimizing Genetic Test Selection: Variants, Repeats & Strategies
David Pellerin, Canada

Genetic Report Interpretation: Challenges and Best Practices
Jonas Saute, Brazil

CSPC Liaisons:

Malco Rossi, Argentina

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this session, participants should be better able to:

1. Describe the range of genetic testing technologies available for movement disorders and discuss practical strategies to improve availability and implementation in diverse healthcare settings.
2. Determine the appropriate genetic testing approach in movement disorders based on clinical presentation and the underlying genetic mechanism.
3. Interpret genetic test reports, focusing on variant classification and variants of uncertain significance (VUS), and define the clinical relevance of re-analysis and genetic counseling practices.

Recommended Audience

Clinician / General Neurology
Fellow / Resident / Student
Health Professional (non-physician)
Researcher / Basic Science

Education Level

Beginner / Foundational
Experienced
Expert