Chapter 20 - CNS

Question 1

ALS

Answer 1

• Degeneration and scarring of the motor neurons in the lateral aspect of the spinal cord, brainstem, and cerebral cortex.
• Muscle atrophy, weakness, movement limitations, and executive dysfunction.
• First presents as asymmetric weakness in the digits of an extremity and slowly spreads.
• Routinely stretch joint contractures
• Adult onset: 2-5 year prognosis due to respiratory compromise.

Question 2

Alzheimer’s

Answer 2

• Degenerative disease characterized by disruptions in multiple major neurotransmitters.
• Decreased amounts of acetylcholine
• Memory loss, impaired judgment, visuospatial deficits.
• Repetition with order of exercises

Question 3

Huntington’s Disease

Answer 3

• Progressive, hereditary disorder characterised by abnormalities in movement, personality disturbances, and dementia.
• Choreic movements: brief, purposeless, involuntary, random.
• Atrophy of the basal ganglia
• Leads to muscle rigidity, dysarthria, and abnormalities of swallowing.

Question 4

Multiple Sclerosis

Answer 4

• Sclerotic plaques eat away at the myelin sheath on neurons
• Slows nerve conduction, blocks nerve signals.
• 1st symptom is often optic neuritis (unilateral, painful loss of vision)

Question 5

Parkinson’s

Answer 5

• Atrophy of the brain leading to degeneration of the neurons in the basal ganglia.
• Hand tremors, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia.
• Decreased ability to walk, change direction, write, basic ADLs, expressionless face.