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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

A progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, Lou Gehrig disease) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by selective loss of upper (UMN) and lower (LMN) motor neurons. About 90% of cases are sporadic; 10% are familial (SOD1, C9orf72, FUS, TARDBP mutations).

Clinical findings include progressive weakness, fasciculations, atrophy, spasticity and hyperreflexia. Bulbar symptoms (dysarthria, dysphagia) develop initially or later in the disease course; respiratory failure is the leading cause of death.

Diagnosis is based on the El Escorial criteria, EMG and clinical examination. Riluzole (50 mg twice daily) and edaravone are disease-modifying treatments. Multidisciplinary care, non-invasive ventilation (BiPAP) and PEG feeding extend survival and improve quality of life.

Symptoms

Progressive muscle weakness
Fasciculations
Muscle atrophy
Spasticity and hyperreflexia
Dysarthria
Dysphagia
Respiratory failure

Risk Factors

Advancing age (40–70)
Male sex (slight predominance)
Family history (10%)
Smoking
Pesticide exposure
Lead and heavy metals

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Progressive limb weakness
  • Hand muscle atrophy
  • Frequent falls
  • Speech changes
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Respiratory complaints

Treatment Methods

01
Riluzole (50 mg 2×/day)
02
Edaravone (intravenous/oral)
03
Multidisciplinary team approach
04
Non-invasive ventilation (BiPAP)
05
PEG feeding (in dysphagia)
06
Symptomatic treatment (spasticity, salivation)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.