Dysfunction of central control of breathing in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Dysfunction in central control of breathing in some amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients is not adequately detected with standard evaluation for respiratory dysfunction. Nocturnal oximetry reveals periodic desaturations despite normal respiratory muscle movements. Continuous diaphragmatic electromyography has provided in vivo data consistent with impaired central control of diaphragm motor units. Current understanding of central control of breathing identifies the pre-Botzinger complex as the inspiratory rhythm generator. Animal models of pre-Botzinger complex neurodegeneration demonstrate rapid eye movement-related central sleep apneas progressing to loss of rapid eye movement sleep, also apparent in some ALS patients. Evidence supports the hypothesis that dysfunction in central control of breathing in some ALS patients may be related to pre-Botzinger complex degeneration. As the impact dysfunction of central control of breathing has on ALS becomes better defined the current standard of evaluating respiratory dysfunction in ALS patients may need updating. Muscle Nerve 56: 197-201, 2017.