Time for optimism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Abstract

Background and purpose: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is among the most common motor neuron diseases in adults. Nevertheless, ALS remains fatal, despite decades of research and clinical trials, which has led to negative conclusions until recently in regard to four specific treatments. It is well known that we can learn from failures, and we consider that the time has come to present positive insight on this disease.

Methods: We did a literature search using PubMed and Scopus for articles published in English from 1 January 2016, to 30 June 2022 dealing with "amyotrophic lateral sclerosis", diagnosis, treatment, and biomarkers.

Results: A comprehensive review of the literature on diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of this condition showed convincing evidence that we are now able to diagnose earlier as well as to better monitor and treat ALS.

Conclusions: Although ALS is often difficult to diagnose and remains incurable, there are many indications that an optimistic view of ALS management in the coming years is now realistic.

Keywords: SOD1-C9orf72; amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; genetics; neurofilaments.