The above picture shows a healthy brain producing good Dopermine

This picture shows a brain which is producing reduced Dopamine

I had this test done and it was negative and didn't show any problems. The doctors finally tried medication and it helped with my symptoms. Doctor told me that 20% false results with datscan. Keep fighting until you get the right answers for your issues.

Hope this helps. I have had a DAT scan also an MRI. as I understand the differences

MRI. This scan is to view the areas of the brain where the Dopamine is pronounced, and delivered from. A healthy brain has two kidney shaped areas one controlling left side one the right. It also allows the specialist to see if there are any other problems.

DAT. Scan is used to asses how much dopermine the brain is producing.

DaTscans use an injection of a radiopharmaceutical to take a picture of your brain's putamen. They are basically looking at the number of dopamine producing neurons that are active in the part of brain where cells die out when you have PD. If your scan comes out just with just two small spots instead of two larger comma shaped regions, it's likely you have PD and your brain isn't making enough dopamine.

Good explanation of DAT Scan I didn't take it b/c I was pretty sure I had it. Family history, symptoms and good response to Sinemet once I adjusted to it Took about 4 days of nausea and then OK
Not everyone needs a scan , but if doctor not sure and pt not sure it is a good tool.