Impaired salivary gland function reveals autonomic dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Recent studies have revealed autonomic dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We studied salivary gland function by quantitative scintigraphy in ALS patients (n = 30) and healthy controls (n = 30). Uptake of (99m)Tc-pertechnetate in the parotid and submandibular glands was significantly decreased in ALS patients. No correlation was found between radiotracer uptake and regions of onset (bulbar-limb), duration of disease, or functional scores. Our data show early subclinical autonomic involvement supporting the view that ALS is a multisystem degenerative disease.