Title : Electrodiagnostic findings in motor neuron disease
Abstract:
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder involving motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Electrodiagnostic Studies including needle EMG (Electromyography) and Nerve Conduction play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of MND. The present study was conducted in the Department of Physiology PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India on 12 clinically diagnosed patients of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) who were sent for EMG and Nerve Conduction studies from the Department of Medicine.
Aim: The study aimed to attempt an early diagnosis of ALS to prevent complications and to start the treatment accordingly. EMG showed evidence of acute denervation like fibrillations, positive sharp waves, and fasciculation potentials along with evidence of chronic denervation (increased polyphasia of motor unit potentials & decreased recruitment with increased duration). In most of the patients increased Zitter was seen in the proximal and distal group of muscles suggestive of the earliest abnormalities of neuromuscular transmission. Motor conduction studies showed a bilateral decrease in the upper and lower extremities as well as facial nerves with increased latency and decreased amplitude. The sensory conduction velocity was near normal. These findings are indicative of lower motor neuron involvement. The study emphasizes the utility of these findings in distinguishing MND from other neuromuscular disorders, aiding in early diagnosis and prognosis, and formulating effective treatment modalities.
