ALS Flashcards
1
Q
what is als
A
rare, progressive neuro disorder characterized by loss of motor neurons upper and lower motor neurons
2
Q
survival of als
A
3 years after diagnosis
3
Q
risk factors for als
A
age 40-70
male
genetics
smoking
4
Q
pathogenesis of ALS
A
motor neuron in brainstem and spinal cord gradually degenerate
electrical and chemical messages from the brain do not reach the muscles
5
Q
what is glutamate
A
excitatory neurotransmitter
6
Q
what could cause als
A
excitatory hypothesis
excessive levels of glutamate initiate a cascade of events that lead to neuro death
7
Q
what drug improves survival of als?
A
riluzole
8
Q
clinical manifestations of als
A
weakness of upper extremities sometimes begins in legs muscle wasting spasticity dysarthria, dysphagia, drooling cognitive and behavior changes constipation sleep problems breathing
9
Q
riluzole
A
glutamate inhibitor
only drug approved for als
reduces damage to motor neurons
10
Q
side effects of riluzole
A
dizziness, GI upset, hepatotoxicity
