Monograph: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mimics
Abstract:
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common adult-onset motor neuron disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of cortical, bulbar, and spinal motor neurons. When a patient presents with a progressive upper and/or lower motor syndrome, clinicians must pay particular attention to any atypical features in the history and/or clinical examination suggesting an alternate diagnosis, as up to 10% percent of patients initially diagnosed with ALS have a mimic of ALS. ALS is a clinical diagnosis and requires the exclusion of other disorders that may have similar presentations but a more favorable prognosis or an effective therapy. Because there is currently no specific diagnostic biomarker that is sensitive or specific for ALS, understanding the spectrum of clinical presentations of ALS and its mimics is paramount. While true mimics of ALS are rare, the clinician must correctly identify these disorders to avoid the misdiagnosis of ALS and to initiate effective treatment where available.
Objectives:1) Be able to identify and diagnose ALS mimics with predominantly upper motor neuron features
2) Be able to identify and diagnose ALS mimics with predominantly lower motor neuron features
3) Be able to identify and diagnose ALS mimics with mixed upper and lower motor neuron
features
ACCREDITATION STATEMENTThe AANEM is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
DISCLOSURE INFORMATION
Dr. Kwan does not have any conflict of interest to disclose. Dr. Vullaganti has consulted for Alexion. All conflicts of interest have been resolved according to ACCME standards.
CREDIT DESIGNATION The AANEM designates this enduring material for a maximum of 2.0
AMA PRA Category 1 Credits TM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. Credit expires 09/01/2025.
Justin Kwan, MD; Mithila Vullaganti, MD.