Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Excerpt

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive, paralytic, neurodegenerative disease affecting the upper and lower motor neurons. ALS is the most common motor neuron disease (MND) and has both sporadic and familial forms. Previously, ALS was distinguished from other motor neuron diseases (ie, primary lateral sclerosis, primary muscular atrophy, and progressive bulbar palsy) based on where the patient's first symptoms presented. It is now recognized that ALS presents with diverse clinical heterogeneity. The etiology of ALS is unknown. Numerous possible genetic and sporadic possibilities are suggested. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis most commonly begins with signs of LMN degeneration affecting the upper extremity but can also present as UMN or bulbar symptoms. Eventually, affected patients will experience respiratory paralysis and, inevitably, death. There is no cure for ALS; however, multiple medications and interventions can help reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life.