Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Motor neuron disorders encompass a group of neurodegenerative conditions in which the premature loss of motor neurons is the essential pathological feature. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND) in the United Kingdom, is the most common of these conditions. The major current therapeutic issues in ALS/MND are summarized in this chapter. The chapter examines whether pharmacological treatments prolong survival in patients with possible or definite ALS/MND. It explains how long-term mechanical ventilation (LTMV) affects survival and quality of life (QoL) in patients with ALS/MND with respiratory insufficiency. The chapter also examines how feeding gastrostomy improves nutritional state and probability of survival in patients with ALS/MND with bulbar involvement. The symptomatic treatments available for patients with ALS/MND are also covered in the chapter. The chapter finally analyzes whether multidisciplinary care (MDC) is an effective means of symptomatic and supportive management in patients with ALS/MND.