Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis(ALS; Lou Gehrig's Disease; Motor Neuron Disease)
by
Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD DefinitionAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive nervous system disorder. It gradually destroys the nerves responsible for muscle movement. Over time, ALS leads to almost total paralysis of muscle movement, including breathing. Eventually, the disorder leads to respiratory failure.
CausesThe cause of ALS is unknown. Genes may play a role. Risk Factors TOPFactors that may increase your risk of getting ALS include:
Symptoms TOPSymptoms of ALS include:
Diagnosis TOPThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. There are no tests that can diagnose ALS. Tests may be used to rule out other medical conditions. Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with: Your bodily fluids and tissues may be tested. This can be done with:
Your muscles and nerves may be evaluated. This can be done with electromyogram (EMG)/nerve conduction velocities (NCV). Your cognitive skills may be assessed. This can be done with neuropsychological testing. Treatment TOPThere is currently no cure for ALS. Treatment may help to reduce or manage symptoms for a time. A combination of treatments may work best. This may include:
Treatment options include: MedicationsThe drug riluzole has been approved for ALS. The drug may slightly improve functioning, but it does not stop the disease from progressing. Your doctor may prescribe these medicines for symptoms:
Other Types of TreatmentsSupportive care may be needed as ALS progresses, including:
Prevention TOPThere are no guidelines for preventing ALS because the cause is unknown. RESOURCES:ALS Association http://www.alsa.org/ National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke http://www.ninds.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:ALS Society of British Columbia http://www.alsbc.ca ALS Society of Canada http://www.als.ca References:
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http://www.ninds.n.... Updated May 15, 2013. Accessed May 21, 2013.
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Last reviewed May 2013 by Rimas Lukas, MD; Michael Woods, MD Last Updated: 5/21/2013 | |
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