[Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): current perspectives and the Swiss ALS Registry]

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease leading to muscle weakness, atrophy, and ultimately death. In addition to mutations in ALS-related genes, environmental and lifestyle factors may increase disease risk. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, supplemented by electroneuromyography, imaging, and molecular genetic testing. No curative therapy exists, but Riluzole and Edaravone can slow progression, and genetic therapies offer promising perspectives in certain genetically determined forms. In practice, diagnosis is often delayed. The Swiss ALS Registry collects comprehensive data on environmental, lifestyle, clinical, genetic, and biomarker factors, aiming to improve understanding of risk, disease progression, and therapeutic approaches.