Peripheral Sensory Abnormalities in ALS

Clinical, electrodiagnostic, and morphologic testing confirms that large- and small-fiber sensory nerve dysfunction is common in ALS.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease primarily affecting motor neurons. However, nonmotor manifestations, including sensory, cognitive, and autonomic impairments, increasingly have been reported. In the current study, investigators examined cutaneous innervation and its correlation with disease severity in patients with ALS using the Small Fiber Neuropathy Symptoms Inventory Questionnaire, nerve conduction studies, and distal leg, thigh, and fingertip (glabrous skin) punch biopsies. Patients with alternate diagnoses including endocrinopathies, autoimmune disorders, and vitamin deficiencies were excluded.

Among 149 participants with ALS (mean age, 63; median disease duration, 14.3 months), 35% experie…

Reviewing Author

Leana Doherty, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsNeurohospitalist Society; InterACTN (Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology)

Leana Doherty, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsNeurohospitalist Society; InterACTN (Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology)

Peripheral Sensory Abnormalities in ALS

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Reviewing Author