A disease of the nerve cells which control the movement of the muscles.
Motor neuron disease is a term used to refer to a group of diseases, all of which are characterized by degeneration of motor neurons. Motor neurons are nerve cells that control the behavior of muscles. Motor neuron disease may affect motor neurons in the spinal cord (lower motor neurons) and in the brain stem (upper motor neurons). Motor neuron disease is characterized in general by muscle weakness and atrophy of varying degrees. Intellectual functioning is normal.
A group of disorders of unknown origin. Certain cells in the neurological system’s motor nerves degenerate and die. Upper and lower motor neurones may be affected but sensory cells retain their normal functions. Three types of MND are identified: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (AML 50 per cent of patients); progressive muscular atrophy (25 per cent), in which the prognosis is better than for AML; and bulbar palsy (25 per cent). Men are affected more than women, and the disorder affects about seven people in every 100,000. Those affected develop progressive weakness and wasting of their muscles. The diagnosis is confirmed with various tests including the measurement of electrical activity in muscles (electromyography), muscle biopsy, blood tests and X-ray examination of the spine. There is no medical treatment: patients need physical and psychological support with aids to help them overcome disabilities. The Motor Neurone Disease Association provides excellent advice and help for sufferers and their relatives.