Relationship between neck weakness in motor neurone disease and respiratory function: a retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Respiratory Medicine
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Motor neurone disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
• Neck weakness is a common symptom in MND, impacting daily function.
• The relationship between neck weakness and respiratory decline in MND requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between neck weakness and respiratory function in MND patients.
• To determine if neck weakness serves as a prognostic indicator for MND progression and survival.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational cohort study of 324 MND patients.
• Data collection included MND characteristics, neck weakness, respiratory function (e.g., FVC), and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) use.
• Multivariate modeling analyzed the impact of neck weakness on respiratory variables and survival.

Main Results:

• Neck weakness was present in 41% of participants.
• Neck weakness predicted a faster decline in respiratory function, including reduced FVC and increased NIV use.
• The onset of neck weakness was associated with a median survival of 8 months, with bulbar onset having a quicker median of 7 months.

Conclusions:

• Neck weakness is significantly associated with accelerated respiratory function decline in MND.
• Neck weakness is a valuable prognostic factor for survival in patients with MND.