Neurológia pre prax 5/2020

Differential diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is characterized by an impairment of central and peripheral motoneurones. According to contemporary diagnostic criteria (Awaji-shima) on the basis of clinical findings and electrophysiological investigation there si possible to determine a probable or a definite diagnosis of ALS. A clasissical form of ALS with the beginning in the extremities or in the bulbar region with gradual generalization occures most frequently. In a differential diagnosis there is necessary to exclude the whole series of generalized disorders and for various focal forms of ALS also further neurological diseases.

Keywords: motoneurones, pyramidal tract, muscle atrophy, paralysis, EMG findings