Signs of Lou Gehrig's Disease (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)

Description

Nervous system disease that attacks nerve cells called motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Also called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). These neurons enable patients to control their voluntary muscles. The disease is most common after 40 years of age, is progressive and 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

A history and physical exam will be done. There is not a 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: electomyography (EMG), nerve conduction velocity (NCV), blood and urine studies, lumbar puncture and biopsies of the muscles and/or nerves.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
MRI
UA

Treatment

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.