ALS Disease

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive neurological disorder that destroys the neurons controlling voluntary muscles. This page of the eMedTV website takes an in-depth look at amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and explains how motor neurons work.

• Familial Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is different from sporadic ALS in that the disease is passed from one family member to another. This eMedTV page explains the genetic mutation that may be responsible for familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

• Causes of ALS

Although the causes of ALS are believed to be linked to genetics, researchers are still looking for a definite answer. This page of the eMedTV archives explores the possible causes of ALS, including factors such as glutamate and autoimmune responses.

• ALS Symptoms

Early ALS symptoms, such as muscle cramping, twitching, or weakness, are often subtle and go undetected. But as this eMedTV segment explains, the symptoms of ALS get worse over time, leading to problems with movement, speech, and breathing.

• ALS Diagnosis

An ALS diagnosis begins with a physical exam that is performed at intervals to assess whether symptoms such as muscle weakness exist. This eMedTV resource describes the ALS diagnosis procedure and tests, such as MRI and blood tests, that are used.

• Treatment of ALS

Although there is no cure for ALS, proper treatment of ALS can lead to reduction of neuron damage and prolong survival. This eMedTV resource lists various types of treatment of ALS, including information on medications and physical therapy.

• ALS Research

ALS research scientists are trying to find ways to stop cell death and understand what triggers selective motor neurons to degenerate. This eMedTV article discusses ALS research findings on biological markers, treatments, and neurotrophic factors.

• ALS and Who It Affects

Information on ALS and who it affects is still being debated by research scientists. This eMedTV page explains ALS and who it affects in more detail, including information on the number of cases that occur at random and those that are inherited.