Motor neurone disease Flashcards
1
Q
What is motor neurone disease?
A
A neurological condition that causes progressive loss of motor neurone function - both upper and lower.
2
Q
What are the four types of motor neurone disease?
A
- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (upper and lower)
- progressive bulbar palsy
- progressive muscular atrophy (lower)
- progressive lateral sclerosis (upper)
Read this:
https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/a-z-of-services/leeds-motor-neurone-disease-mnd-care-centre/your-condition-and-treatment/different-types-of-mnd/
3
Q
What are some risk factors for motor neurone disease?
A
- genetic component
- smoking
- exposure to heavy metals and certain pesticides
4
Q
How does motor neurone disease present?
A
- progressive weakness of muscles throughout the body
- increased muscle fatigue when exercising
- slurred speech (dysarthria)
- peripheral neuropathy
- lower or upper motor neurone signs
5
Q
What are the signs of lower motor neurone disease?
A
- muscle wasting
- reduced tone
- fasiculations in muscles
- reduced reflexes
6
Q
What are the signs of upper motor neurone disease?
A
- increased tone or spasticity
- hyperreflexia
- up going plantar responses
7
Q
How is motor neurone disease managed?
A
Supportive management
- analgesia
- non invasive ventilation - supporting breathing at night
- occupational and physiotherapy
Specialist medications aim to slow progression – e.g. riluzole
