ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)

ALS Overview

• The average age of onset for ALS is not specified, but it varies for different types of ALS.

Demographics

• Males are affected more than females in ALS.

Cause of Death

• Respiratory failure is the usual cause of death in ALS patients.

Types of ALS

• Sporadic ALS accounts for the majority of cases in the U.S.

Impact on the Body

• ALS causes progressive loss of motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, atrophy, and paralysis.

Global Incidence

• The estimated annual global incidence of ALS is not specified, but it varies by region.

Inherited ALS

• Only about 5-10% of ALS cases are believed to be inherited.

Causes of ALS

• The prevailing belief is that ALS is a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.

Initial Symptoms

• The part of the body initially affected by the loss of muscle control in ALS varies from person to person, but can include arms, legs, or facial muscles.

Prevalence in the U.S.

• Approximately 5,000-6,000 Americans are affected by ALS each year.

Diagnosis

• A neurological exam is a common initial step in diagnosing ALS.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) is not typically used in the diagnosis of ALS.

Uncommon Symptoms

• Dementia is not commonly associated with ALS.

Neurologist's Role

• The primary role of a neurologist in diagnosing ALS is to rule out other possible causes of symptoms and to diagnose ALS through clinical evaluation and various tests.