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Quantitative anal sphincter EMG in multisystem atrophy and 100 controls
R Gilad1, N Giladi, A D Korczyn
1Department of Neurology, Wolfson Medical Center, Holon 58100, Israel. gilad-ar@inter.net.il
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|October 19, 2001
Summary
Quantitative anal sphincter electromyography (EMG) in multiple system atrophy (MSA) patients showed reduced recruitment patterns compared to controls. This suggests potential motor neuron loss or upper motor neuron involvement affecting the anal sphincter.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- Quantitative anal sphincter electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic tool.
- Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting multiple systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate quantitative anal sphincter EMG data in normal controls.
- To compare EMG findings between normal controls and patients with MSA.
Main Methods:
- Performed quantitative anal sphincter EMG on 100 normal controls and 11 MSA patients.
- Characterized EMG data including motor unit potential (MUP) parameters and recruitment patterns.
Main Results:
- Normal controls showed age-related trends in MUP amplitude, duration, area, and polyphasicity.
- MSA patients had similar MUP size and fiber density compared to controls.
- Significant reduction in recruitment pattern parameters, specifically fewer active MUPs at rest, was observed in MSA patients.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest possible decreased motor cells in Onuf's nucleus without significant reinnervation in MSA.
- Upper motor neuron involvement affecting the anal sphincter in MSA is also indicated.
- Emphasizes the need for age-matched controls in comparative EMG studies.