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Updated: Aug 15, 2025
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A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ALS
Published on: February 21, 2011
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Bulbar onset amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A case report
Prasamsa Pudasaini1, Shashank Neupane1, Bishal Dhakal1
1Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2012)
|December 30, 2022
Summary
Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are crucial for managing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), especially bulbar onset ALS. Prompt intervention and prognosis impact patient survival and treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative disease impacting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
- Bulbar onset ALS presents unique diagnostic and prognostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old female presented with bulbar symptoms including dysarthria and dysphagia.
- Diagnostic workup included Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Electromyography (EMG), and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS).
Findings:
- The case highlights the diagnostic utility of neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies in ALS.
- Genioglossus muscle involvement at diagnosis is associated with a poorer prognosis in ALS patients.
Implications:
- Bulbar onset ALS necessitates a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, speech therapists, and electrophysiologists.
- Early diagnosis and prognosis are critical for optimizing patient outcomes and treatment strategies, potentially including therapies like Edaravone.
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