ALS Flashcards
1
Q
What is Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
A
Death of upper and lower motor neurons
2
Q
ALS symptoms
A
Dependent on which motor neurons are effected
Cramping, weakness, atrophy, twitching, difficulty chewing/swallowing dysarthria, decreased respirations
3
Q
Criteria to diagnose ALS
A
Upper or lower motor neuron dysfunction; Bulbar, cervical, thoracic, and lumbosacral motor neuron
involvement
-Definite: 3/4
-Probable: 2/4
-Possible: 1/4
4
Q
What does an LP show in ALS
A
Elevated light and heavy chains are markers of neurodegeneration
5
Q
ALS treatment
A
No definitive treatment
Riluzole increases length of survival
