From Respiratory Distress to Diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of motor neurons, which results in weakness and atrophy of voluntary skeletal muscles. ALS is the most common form of motor neuron disease (MND). It is currently incurable and treatment is largely limited to supportive care. Family history is associated with an increased risk of ALS. The disease usually does not affect cognitive abilities, but causes muscle weakness. Respiratory function in the early stages of the disease is generally normal, shortness of breath occurs as the disease progresses. This paper has been submitted about ALS patient who was diagnosed and treated in intensive care unit followed by severe respiratory failure.