Imaging techniques in ALS

Arch Ital Biol. 2017 Dec 1;155(4):142-151. doi: 10.12871/00039829201745.

Abstract

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by degeneration of both upper and lower motor neuron located in the spinal cord and brainstem. Diagnosis of ALS is predominantly clinical, nevertheless, electromyography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may provide support. Several advanced MRI techniques have been proven useful for ALS diagnosis and, indeed, the combination of different MRI techniques demonstrated an improvement in sensitivity and specificity as far as 90%. This review focus on the imaging techniques currently used in the diagnosis and management of ALS with brief considerations on future applications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Neuroimaging / methods*
  • Pyramidal Tracts / diagnostic imaging*