Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
About Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
A nervous system disease that attacks nerve cells called motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These neurons enable patients to control their voluntary muscles. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is also called Lou Gehrig's disease. The disease appears after 40 years of age and is progressive. The disease is more common in males. There is no known treatment and therapy is aimed at reducing the symptoms and prolonging survival. Eventually patients are no longer able to breathe and suffer respiratory failure and death. The cause of ALS is not known.Symptoms
Early symptoms involve muscle twitching followed by weakness. Muscle weakness involves the hands, arms, legs, and muscles of speech. Other affected areas cause problems swallowing, breathing difficulties, and slurred speech. Progressive weakness of the breathing muscles causes respiratory failure.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. There is not one specific test to diagnose ALS. The diagnosis is established by ruling out other causes of the symptoms and physical findings. Tests that may be performed include: electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction velocity (NCV), blood and urine studies, lumbar puncture and biopsies of the muscles and/or nerves.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), MRI, Urinalysis (UA).
Conventional treatment summary
There is no cure. Medicines can relieve symptoms. Physical therapy and speech therapy can help reduce the severity of symptoms. The disease is progressive and it is important for affected patients to discuss their desires about prolonging life early in the course of the disease.Medical specialties
Neurology · Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).