Considerations on the concept, definition, and diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Abstract

The concept, definition, and diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) currently present some problems. This article systematically reviews the literature on the history, current concepts, definition, and diagnosis of ALS, and discloses the present problems based on the retrieved literature and the authors’ clinical experience. The current concepts and definitions of ALS have not yet been unified or standardized in clinical practice, and are sometimes vague or inaccurate, which can cause difficulties for neurologists in the clinical treatment of ALS. The concept and definition of ALS need to be further ascertained, and the current diagnostic criteria for ALS require further development. The identification of effective and objective biomarkers may be a feasible method for the early and accurate diagnosis of ALS. Therefore, future research should focus on the identification of reliable biomarkers—especially neuroimaging biomarkers—through autopsy. Standardizing the concept and definition of ALS and formulating clear diagnostic criteria will largely avoid many uncertainties in the future clinical research and treatment of ALS, which will greatly benefit patients.

Keywords

• amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; clinical symptoms; concept; definition; diagnosis; familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; motor neuron disease; muscle atrophy