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Updated: Jul 2, 2026
12:43
A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Published on: February 21, 2011
Pathological laughter in a patient with multiple sclerosis.
1Geisinger Medical Center, 100 N Academy Ave 14-05, Danville, PA 17822-0001, USA. hoegerl@yahoo.com
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|August 30, 2008
Summary
Pathological laughter, a symptom of pseudobulbar affect, is often overlooked in multiple sclerosis patients. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this neurological symptom in MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuropsychiatry
Background:
- Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) involves involuntary emotional expression like pathological laughter or crying.
- PBA is commonly associated with neurologic conditions, notably Alzheimer disease.
- PBA is frequently underdiagnosed in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male patient with a 20-year history of multiple sclerosis presented with pathological laughter.
- The patient's symptoms were indicative of pseudobulbar affect.
Findings:
- This case underscores that pathological laughter can be a manifestation of multiple sclerosis.
- It highlights a potential diagnostic gap for PBA in MS patients.
Implications:
- Increased physician awareness of PBA in MS is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- Recognizing PBA can improve the quality of life for multiple sclerosis patients experiencing emotional dysregulation.
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