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Studies with patientsTable of Contents (click to jump to sections)
What are Motor Neuron Diseases?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?
Organizations
Related NINDS Publications and Information
What are Motor Neuron Diseases?
Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are progressive, degenerative disorders that affect nerves in the upper or lower parts of the body. Some of the diseases are inherited, while others may be acquired. Common MNDs include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), progressive muscular atrophy, and postpolio syndrome. Generally, MNDs strike in middle age. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, limb weakness, slurred speech, impaired gait, facial weakness, and muscle cramps. Respiration may be affected in the later stages of these diseases. The cause(s) of most MNDs are not known, but environmental, toxic, viral, or genetic factors may be implicated.Is there any treatment?
There is no cure, nor standard treatment, for MNDs. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Physical therapy, drug therapy, and assistive devices may help some individuals.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis for individuals with these disorders varies depending on the type of MND. Some types, such as ALS, are fatal.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports a broad range of studies aimed at discovering the cause(s) of MNDs, finding better treatments, and, ultimately, preventing and curing the disorders.
Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
OrganizationsMuscular Dystrophy Association
3300 East Sunrise Drive
Tucson, AZ
85718-3208
mda@mdausa.org
http://www.mdausa.org/
Tel: 520-529-2000
800-572-1717
Fax: 520-529-5300
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT
06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203-744-0100
Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291
Related NINDS Publications and InformationAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease) information sheet compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Fact Sheet
A fact sheet on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) prepared by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Post-Polio Syndrome
Post-Polio Syndrome information sheet compiled by NINDS.
Post-Polio Syndrome Fact Sheet
Post-polio syndrome (PPS) fact sheet compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
El Síndrome de la Pospoliomielitis
Información del Sindrome de la Pospoliomielitis/Spanish-language fact sheet on Post-Polio Syndrome compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Primary Lateral Sclerosis
Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) information sheet compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Monomelic Amyotrophy
Monomelic amyotrophy (Benign Focal Amyotrophy) information sheet compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Testimony on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, May 2000
NINDS Director's testimony before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies
on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), May 18, 2000.
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
Provided by:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
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