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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Saudi Arabia: a multicenter descriptive study
Abdulmalik Alshoshan1, Adi Abdulaziz R Aldubaiyan1, Ammar Hakami1
1Neuroscience Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis & Frontotemporal Degeneration
|November 24, 2025
Summary
This study details Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Saudi Arabia, revealing a younger age of onset and significant familial prevalence. Findings offer insights into region-specific patterns for improved diagnosis and potential therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with limited research in the Middle East.
- Understanding regional variations in ALS demographics and clinical presentation is crucial for targeted healthcare strategies.
- Saudi Arabia presents a unique demographic and genetic landscape for studying ALS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics of ALS patients in Saudi Arabia.
- To analyze disease progression and prognosis within the Saudi Arabian population.
- To identify region-specific patterns of ALS for potential therapeutic advancements.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective multicenter cohort study across five Saudi tertiary centers (2003-2022).
- Diagnosis confirmed using revised El Escorial criteria with EMG where indicated.
- Data collected on demographics, family history, phenotype, imaging, genetics, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- 270 patients included; mean age at symptom onset was 51 years.
- Limb-onset (68%) more common than bulbar-onset (32%).
- 14% familial prevalence; common genetic variants included OPTN and SOD1.
- Approximately 80% requiring advanced support received it within 3 years of symptom onset.
- Riluzole was the most common treatment.
Conclusions:
- This study provides critical insights into ALS in Saudi Arabia, highlighting a younger age of onset and notable familial prevalence.
- Findings underscore the need for further research into genetic and environmental factors influencing ALS in the region.
- Improved understanding can lead to enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for ALS patients in Saudi Arabia.
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