The conference entitled Essential Knowledge Gaps in the field of Essential Tremor was held on May 11-12, 2015. It was broken into 5 sessions – (1) Phenomenology & Phenotypes, (2) What can we learn from available therapies & what do we need to implement clinical trials and advance clinical research in ET, (3) Physiology of Essential Tremor, (4) Pathology, and (5) Genetics.
For each of the above discussion points, an expert in the respective field made a presentation regarding the topic. The discussion was then open to all of the participants. This was followed by a summary of what had been discussed. As one who has Essential Tremor and is not a doctor, I was impressed by how it was conducted and the points that were made.
I am optimistic. There are big challenges ahead – not the least is – we need a better understanding of what Essential Tremor is. The various working groups will now take their respective summaries and put together a more specific plan for moving forward.
NINDS did a good job with the conference. I am confident that they will continue to play a constructive role in ensuring that follow up occurs.
Peter