Diagnosis and management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive loss of upper and lower motor neurons. The clinical diagnosis is confirmed by careful history taking, neurologic examination and electromyography. Like other neurodegenerative disease, ALS has many genetic and environmental factors. There are many studies reported about the pathogenesis and treatment of ALS. Many clinical trials are currently in progress. Herein we review about the epidemiology, genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of ALS.