Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurological disease that destroys neurons controlling voluntary muscles. This eMedTV Web page takes an in-depth look at this condition, including possible symptoms, treatment options, prognosis, and more.
Familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis differs from sporadic ALS in that it is passed on to family members. This eMedTV page explains the genetic mutation that may be responsible for the disease and links to information on symptoms, treatment, and more.
Although ALS is believed to be linked to genetics, researchers are still looking for a definite cause. This eMedTV selection explores the possible causes of ALS, including factors such as glutamate and autoimmune responses.
Early ALS symptoms, such as muscle cramping or twitching, are often subtle and go undetected. But as this eMedTV segment explains, the symptoms of this condition get worse over time, leading to problems with movement, speech, and breathing.
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.
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.
As this eMedTV page explains, ways to stop cell death and understand what triggers selective motor neurons to degenerate are primary aspects of ALS research. This page also discusses research findings on biological markers and neurotrophic factors.
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.
