ALS (from motor neuron case ppt)

Question 1

Define ALS

Answer 1

• Death of anterior horn cells

- Dysfunction of pyramidal tracts

Question 2

How does ALS present?

Answer 2

• Atrophy and weakness of pyramidal tracts with spasticity and hyperreflexia/up going toes
• Sensory INTACT
• Painless at onset

Question 3

Motor vs. sensory function in ALS

Answer 3

Sensory remains intact!

Question 4

What is spared in ALS?

Answer 4

Extraocular muscles (unlike other conditions)

Question 5

What CNs are MC affected by ALS?

Answer 5

9, 10, 12

Question 6

Key feature of ALS?

Answer 6

Atrophy/fasciculations/weakness with hyperreflexia

Question 7

Define polymyositis compared to ALS

Answer 7

Myopathy with atrophic weak muscles and sensory intact with elevated CPK (ALL THE SAME AS ALS) BUT weakness is in all 4 extremities relatively evenly and reflexes are decreased

Question 8

How to differentiate myasthenia gravis from ALS?

Answer 8

Loss of extraocular muscle function in MG but NOT ALS