Were you looking for information about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis? Amyotropic lateral sclerosis is a common misspelling of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a rapidly progressive
motor neuron disease that affects nerve cells located in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. In the United States, approximately 20,000 people have the condition and an estimated 5,000 are diagnosed each year.
People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis typically lose their strength and the ability to move the arms, legs, and body. The disorder does not usually affect memory, thinking, or other cognitive functions. While there is no cure for ALS, a medication called riluzole is believed to reduce damage to motor neurons and prolong survival by several months.
(Click Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis to learn more about this neurological disease. This eMedTV segment provides a detailed overview, with information on symptoms, causes, treatment options, and more.)
