BSC 2346 Module 08 Case Study: CNS Movement Disorders.Part I—"Harry" Questions
1. What condition or conditions (disease/diseases) could Harry have as
... [Show More] described in this case? Which one would be your primary diagnosis? In a very general explanation, describe this condition/disease. (1 point)
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. In ALS, both the upper motor neurons and the lower motor neurons degenerate or die, and stop sending messages to muscles. Unable to function, the muscles gradually weaken, waste away (atrophy), and have very fine twitches (called fasciculations). Eventually, the ability of the brain to start and control voluntary movement is lost.
2. Which patient findings/observations lead you to your primary diagnosis? How do they relate to the primary diagnosis? (1 point)
Harry has weakness in his muscles, lost weight, upper body nearly wasted away(atrophy), and difficult movement activities are the sign of ALS disorder. Together with positive Babinski test and EMG indicated Harry has denervation. Increased plasma levels of glutamate have been reported in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, in which glutamate excitotoxicity is thought to play a role in the pathophysiology.
3. How does this condition (pathophysiology) affect the body and lead to the observable symptoms and dysfunction? Be specific in the areas of the CNS it affects. (1 point)
The upper and lower motor neuron in brain and spinal cord degenerate and die cause stop sending messages to voluntary muscles such as upper limbs, lower limbs, and face. ALS causes weakness and atrophy of muscles with a wide range of disabilities. Moreover, muscles in the diaphragm and chest wall fail, people lose the ability to breathe without ventilatory support. Most people with ALS die from respiratory failure, usually within 3 to 5 years from the onset of symptoms. However, about 10 percent of those with ALS survive for 10 or more years.
4. What treatment options are available for this condition? (1 point)
ALS cannot be cure. Riluzole approved from FDA to reduce damage to motor neurons by decreasing the release of glutamate. Other treatments for ALS are designed to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with the disorder. Physicians can prescribe medications to help
reduce fatigue, ease muscle cramps, control spasticity, and reduce e [Show Less]