MRI in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: more than a promise
- Correspondence to Dr Julian Grosskreutz, Hans-Berger Department of Neurology, University Hospital Jena, Erlanger Allee 101, Jena 07747, Germany; julian.grosskreutz{at}med.uni-jena.de
- Received 16 June 2012
- Revised 26 November 2012
- Accepted 26 November 2012
- Published Online First 25 December 2012
In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the deadliest form of motor neuron diseases, physicians observe the spread of non-painful paralysis with intact sensory function often presenting as asymmetric muscle atrophy and brisk or maintained reflexes. Using Awaji criteria to estimate upper and lower motor neuron signs in bulbar, cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions, and the highly sensitive electromyography (EMG), they diagnose amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in a majority of the cases. The spread of symptoms is attributed to spinal motor neuron pathology, but experienced ALS neurologists will agree that a slowing of movement, loss of fine motor control and occurrence of mass or mirror movements …
