Advances in ALS Workshop Summary

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
An integrated view of ALS needs to consider not only the degenerative process of the motor neurons, but also the role of non-neuronal supporting cells. The characteristic loss of anterior horn cells, atrophy of ventral roots, and demyelination of the corticospinal tracts traditionally establish the diagnosis and indicate that it is a selective disease of the motor system. However, there can also be damage to other nerve cells, sensory neurons, sphincteric motor neurons, and cells of the substantia nigra and frontal lobe. These are more commonly seen in the patient who has been maintained on a respirator. [1-3] Whether this reflects the ultimate involvement of nonmotor systems or the effects of chronic respiratory insufficiency is uncertain. Either way, the early vulnerability of the motor neuron in ALS is likely to be a reflection of …