Motor Neurone Disease

Question 1

What is MND?

Answer 1

Progressive, fatal condition with degeneration of all motor neurons but sensation in tact

Question 2

What is ALS?

Answer 2

Most common form of MND
LMN and UMN
Widespread fasciculations
Asymmetric onset of weakness in upper and lower limbs

Question 3

What is progressive bulbar palsy?

Answer 3

2nd most common MND
LMN only
Affects bulbar muscles of swallowing and talking

Question 4

What is progressive muscular atophy?

Answer 4

LMN only MND
Flail arm variant

Question 5

What is primary lateral sclerosis?

Answer 5

UMN only
Least common
Loss of betz cells in the motor cortex

Question 6

What are some symptoms of LMN disease?

Answer 6

Hypotonia
Hyporeflexia
Fasciculations

Question 7

What are some symptoms of UMN disease?

Answer 7

Hyperreflexia
Hypertonia
No fasciculations
Upgoing plantar reflex

Question 8

What is the treatment for MND?

Answer 8

Riluzole can extend life by 3 months

Question 9

What type of drug is Riluzole?

Answer 9

Na+ channel blocker that inhibits glutamate release

Question 10

What is the most common cause of death in MND?

Answer 10

Pneumonia and respiratory failure