an organic disease of the central nervous system, with predominant affection of the spinal cord and medulla oblongata. First described in 1865 by the French neuropathologist J. Charcot.
About 3 percent of all organic lesions of the central nervous system are due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which is observed mainly in the 30- to 50-year age group. The causes of the disease are unknown. The majority of scientists regard the condition as degenerative, but a theory of viral causation is being developed. The onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is accompanied by gradually intensifying weakness of arms and legs. Swallowing and speech become impaired in proportion to the progress of the disease. As a result of weakness of the muscles of the tongue, soft palate, and vocal cords, choking occurs during eating, food enters the nose, and speech becomes nasalized and sometimes completely impossible. Tendon reflexes of the arms and legs are intensified, and pathological reflexes appear. Sensitivity disorder is occasionally present. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is chronic.
Treatment Medicinal preparations which benefit the central nervous system and the metabolism in damaged tissues (lipotserebrin, dibazol, proserine, vitamins B12, B1 and E), and physiotherapy. Constant and attentive care of the patient is necessary.
V. S. ROTENBERG