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Meyers EE, Brizzi KT. Analgesic Strategies in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis #477. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:565-566. [PMID: 38574339 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2024.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
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Pota V, Sansone P, De Sarno S, Aurilio C, Coppolino F, Barbarisi M, Barbato F, Fiore M, Cosenza G, Passavanti MB, Pace MC. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Pain: A Narrative Review from Pain Assessment to Therapy. Behav Neurol 2024; 2024:1228194. [PMID: 38524401 PMCID: PMC10960655 DOI: 10.1155/2024/1228194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent neurodegenerative disease of the motor system that affects upper and lower motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle weakness, spasticity, atrophy, and respiratory failure, with a life expectancy of 2-5 years after symptom onset. In addition to motor symptoms, patients with ALS have a multitude of nonmotor symptoms; in fact, it is currently considered a multisystem disease. The purpose of our narrative review is to evaluate the different types of pain, the correlation between pain and the disease's stages, the pain assessment tools in ALS patients, and the available therapies focusing above all on the benefits of cannabis use. Pain is an underestimated and undertreated symptom that, in the last few years, has received more attention from research because it has a strong impact on the quality of life of these patients. The prevalence of pain is between 15% and 85% of ALS patients, and the studies on the type and intensity of pain are controversial. The absence of pain assessment tools validated in the ALS population and the dissimilar study designs influence the knowledge of ALS pain and consequently the pharmacological therapy. Several studies suggest that ALS is associated with changes in the endocannabinoid system, and the use of cannabis could slow the disease progression due to its neuroprotective action and act on pain, spasticity, cramps, sialorrhea, and depression. Our research has shown high patients' satisfaction with the use of cannabis for the treatment of spasticity and related pain. However, especially due to the ethical problems and the lack of interest of pharmaceutical companies, further studies are needed to ensure the most appropriate care for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Pota
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Sansone
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara De Sarno
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Aurilio
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Coppolino
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Manlio Barbarisi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Marco Fiore
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Cosenza
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Passavanti
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Pace
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
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Boostani R, Olfati N, Shamshiri H, Salimi Z, Fatehi F, Hedjazi SA, Fakharian A, Ghasemi M, Okhovat AA, Basiri K, Haghi Ashtiani B, Ansari B, Raissi GR, Khatoonabadi SA, Sarraf P, Movahed S, Panahi A, Ziaadini B, Yazdchi M, Bakhtiyari J, Nafissi S. Iranian clinical practice guideline for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1154579. [PMID: 37333000 PMCID: PMC10272856 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1154579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegeneration involving motor neurons. The 3-5 years that patients have to live is marked by day-to-day loss of motor and sometimes cognitive abilities. Enormous amounts of healthcare services and resources are necessary to support patients and their caregivers during this relatively short but burdensome journey. Organization and management of these resources need to best meet patients' expectations and health system efficiency mandates. This can only occur in the setting of multidisciplinary ALS clinics which are known as the gold standard of ALS care worldwide. To introduce this standard to the care of Iranian ALS patients, which is an inevitable quality milestone, a national ALS clinical practice guideline is the necessary first step. The National ALS guideline will serve as the knowledge base for the development of local clinical pathways to guide patient journeys in multidisciplinary ALS clinics. To this end, we gathered a team of national neuromuscular experts as well as experts in related specialties necessary for delivering multidisciplinary care to ALS patients to develop the Iranian ALS clinical practice guideline. Clinical questions were prepared in the Patient, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) format to serve as a guide for the literature search. Considering the lack of adequate national/local studies at this time, a consensus-based approach was taken to evaluate the quality of the retrieved evidence and summarize recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Boostani
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nahid Olfati
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hosein Shamshiri
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zanireh Salimi
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farzad Fatehi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Arya Hedjazi
- Legal Medicine Research Center, Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atefeh Fakharian
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Research Center (PRRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Ghasemi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Okhovat
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Keivan Basiri
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Isfahan Neuroscience Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Bahram Haghi Ashtiani
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnaz Ansari
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Isfahan Neuroscience Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- AL Zahra Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Gholam Reza Raissi
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromusculoskeletal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Payam Sarraf
- Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Movahed
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Akram Panahi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bentolhoda Ziaadini
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Neurology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yazdchi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Bakhtiyari
- Department of Speech Therapy, School of Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahriar Nafissi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Els C, Jackson TD, Hagtvedt R, Kunyk D, Sonnenberg B, Lappi VG, Straube S. High-dose opioids for chronic non-cancer pain: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 3:CD012299. [PMID: 36961252 PMCID: PMC10037930 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012299.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This overview was originally published in 2017, and is being updated in 2022. Chronic pain is typically described as pain on most days for at least three months. Chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) is any chronic pain that is not due to a malignancy. Chronic non-cancer pain in adults is a common and complex clinical issue, for which opioids are prescribed by some physicians for pain management. There are concerns that the use of high doses of opioids for CNCP lacks evidence of effectiveness, and may increase the risk of adverse events. OBJECTIVES To describe the evidence from Cochrane Reviews and overviews regarding the efficacy and safety of high-dose opioids (defined as 200 mg morphine equivalent or more per day) for CNCP. METHODS We identified Cochrane Reviews and overviews by searching the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in The Cochrane Library. The date of the last search was 21 July 2022. Two overview authors independently assessed the search results. We planned to analyse data on any opioid agent used at a high dose for two weeks or more for the treatment of CNCP in adults. MAIN RESULTS We did not identify any reviews or overviews that met the inclusion criteria. The excluded reviews largely reflected low doses or titrated doses, where all doses were analysed as a single group; we were unable to extract any data for high-dose use only. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is a critical lack of high-quality evidence, in the form of Cochrane Reviews, about how well high-dose opioids work for the management of CNCP in adults, and regarding the presence and severity of adverse events. No evidence-based argument can be made on the use of high-dose opioids, i.e. 200 mg morphine equivalent or more daily, in clinical practice. Considering that high-dose opioids have been, and are still being used in clinical practice to treat CNCP, knowing about the efficacy and safety of these higher doses is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charl Els
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Tanya D Jackson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Reidar Hagtvedt
- Accounting and Business Analytics, Alberta School of Business, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Diane Kunyk
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Barend Sonnenberg
- Medical Services, Workers' Compensation Board - Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Vernon G Lappi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Sebastian Straube
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Shoesmith C. Palliative care principles in ALS. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 191:139-155. [PMID: 36599506 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-824535-4.00007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with progressive dysphagia, dysarthria, extremity weakness, and dyspnea. Although there are some disease-modifying pharmacological treatments available which can modestly slow disease progression, the disease is relentlessly progressive and is ultimately fatal. Patients living with ALS should be supported using the principles of palliative care, and in particular, the use of a holistic approach to support the patients and their families. Evidence would support management of patients living with ALS by a multidisciplinary ALS specialty clinic. These multidisciplinary clinics will help support the multitude of symptoms a patient living with ALS can experience, including dysphagia, communication impairments, dexterity impairments, mobility deficits, and respiratory insufficiency. Formal involvement of specialist-trained palliative practitioners can occur throughout the course of the illness, or when the patient is open to their involvement. There are several models of palliative care that can be followed, including integration of palliative care into the multidisciplinary ALS clinic, separate involvement of a palliative care specialty team, home-based palliative care, telemedicine supported care, and hospice care. Key components of palliative care in ALS are goals-of-care discussions advance directive planning, symptoms management, and end-of-life support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen Shoesmith
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Division of Neurology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada.
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Kwak S. Pain in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF YEUNGNAM MEDICAL SCIENCE 2022; 39:181-189. [PMID: 35673830 PMCID: PMC9273136 DOI: 10.12701/jyms.2022.00332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition characterized by loss of motor neurons, resulting in motor weakness of the limbs and/or bulbar muscles. Pain is a prevalent but neglected symptom of ALS, and it has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. This review outlines the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, underlying mechanisms, and management strategies of pain in ALS to improve clinical practice and patient outcomes related to pain. Pain is a prevalent symptom among patients with ALS, with a variable reported prevalence. It may occur at any stage of the disease and can involve any part of the body without a specific pattern. Primary pain includes neuropathic pain and pain from spasticity or cramps, while secondary pain is mainly nociceptive, occurring with the progression of muscle weakness and atrophy, prolonged immobility causing degenerative changes in joints and connective tissue, and long-term home mechanical ventilation. Prior to treatment, the exact patterns and causes of pain must first be identified, and the treatment should be tailored to each patient. Treatment options can be classified into pharmacological treatments, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antiepileptic drugs, drugs for cramps or spasticity, and opioid; and nonpharmacological treatments, including positioning, splints, joint injections, and physical therapy. The development of standardized and specific assessment tools for pain-specific to ALS is required, as are further studies on treatments to reduce pain, diminish suffering, and improve the quality of life of patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyoung Kwak
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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A Multi-Center Cohort Study on Characteristics of Pain, Its Impact and Pharmacotherapeutic Management in Patients with ALS. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10194552. [PMID: 34640573 PMCID: PMC8509485 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although pain is common in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and an effectively treatable symptom, it is widely under-recognized and undertreated. This study investigates epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pain, its impact and pharmacological treatment in ALS patients. In addition, opportunities for further optimization of pain therapy need to be identified. Methods: Patients from three German ALS outpatient clinics were asked to complete the Brief Pain Inventory and the ALS Functional Rating Scale—Extension and to participate in semi-structured telephone interviews. Results: Of the 150 study participants, 84 patients reported pain. Pain occurred across all disease stages, predominantly in the neck, back and lower extremities. It was described with a broad spectrum of pain descriptors and mostly interfered with activity-related functions. Of the 84 pain patients, 53.8% reported an average pain intensity ≥4 on the numerical rating scale (NRS), indicating pain of at least moderate intensity, and 64.3% used pain medication. Irrespective of the medication type, 20.4% of them had no sufficient pain relief. Thirteen out of 30 patients without pain medication reported an average NRS value ≥4. Eleven of them—mainly in the context of high pain interference with daily functions—were supposed to benefit from adequate pain therapy. However, many patients had relevant concerns and misconceptions about pain therapy. Conclusion: Given the frequency, extent and multi-faceted impact of pain, it is necessary to systematically assess pain throughout the disease course. Potentials to optimize pain therapy were seen in the subset of patients with insufficient pain relief despite medication and in those patients without pain medication but high pain interference. However, there is a need to respond to patients’ barriers to pain therapy.
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Pain Phenotypes in Rare Musculoskeletal and Neuromuscular Diseases. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 124:267-290. [PMID: 33581222 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
For patients diagnosed with a rare musculoskeletal or neuromuscular disease, pain may transition from acute to chronic; the latter yielding additional challenges for both patients and care providers. We assessed the present understanding of pain across a set of ten rare, noninfectious, noncancerous disorders; Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Achondroplasia, Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva, Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune-Albright Syndrome, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Infantile- and Late-Onset Pompe disease, Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Through the integration of natural history, cross-sectional, retrospective, clinical trials, & case studies we described pathologic and genetic factors, pain sources, phenotypes, and lastly, existing therapeutic approaches. We highlight that while rare diseases possess distinct core pathologic features, there are a number of shared pain phenotypes and mechanisms that may be prospectively examined and therapeutically targeted in a parallel manner. Finally, we describe clinical and research approaches that may facilitate more accurate diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of pain as well as elucidation of the evolving nature of pain phenotypes in rare musculoskeletal or neuromuscular illnesses.
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Meyer T, Funke A, Münch C, Kettemann D, Maier A, Walter B, Thomas A, Spittel S. Real world experience of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the treatment of spasticity using tetrahydrocannabinol:cannabidiol (THC:CBD). BMC Neurol 2019; 19:222. [PMID: 31493784 PMCID: PMC6732193 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-019-1443-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment of spasticity poses a major challenge in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patient management. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):cannabidiol (CBD) oromucosal spray (THC:CBD), approved for the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis, serves as a complementary off-label treatment option in ALS-related spasticity. However, few structured data are available on THC:CBD in the treatment of spasticity in ALS. Method A retrospective mono-centric cohort study was realised in 32 patients that meet the following criteria: 1) diagnosis of ALS, 2) ALS-related spasticity; 3) treatment with THC:CBD. Spasticity was rated using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Patient’s experience with THC:CBD was assessed using the net promoter score (NPS) and treatment satisfaction questionnaire for medication (TSMQ-9) as captured through telephone survey or online assessment. Results The mean dose THC:CBD were 5.5 daily actuations (range < 1 to 20). Three subgroups of patients were identified: 1) high-dose daily use (≥ 7 daily actuations, 34%, n = 11), 2) low-dose daily use (< 7 daily actuations, 50%, n = 16), 3) infrequent use (< 1 daily actuation, 16%, n = 5). Overall NPS was + 4.9 (values above 0 express a positive recommendation to fellow patients). Remarkably, patients with moderate to severe spasticity (NRS ≥ 4) reported a high recommendation rate (NPS: + 29) in contrast to patients with mild spasticity (NRS < 4; NPS: − 44). For the three main domains of TSQM-9 high mean satisfaction levels were found (maximum value 100): effectiveness 70.5 (±22.3), convenience 76.6 (±23.3) and global satisfaction 75.0 (±24.7). Conclusion THC:CBD is used in a wide dose range suggesting that the drug was applied on the basis of individual patients’ needs and preferences. Contributing to this notion, moderate to severe spasticity was associated with an elevated number of daily THC:CBD actuations and stronger recommendation rate (NPS) as compared to patients with mild spasticity. Overall, treatment satisfaction (TSQM-9) was high. The results suggest that THC:CBD may serve as a valuable addition in the spectrum of symptomatic therapy in ALS. However, prospective studies and head-to-head comparisons to other spasticity medications are of interest to further explore the effectiveness of THC:CBD in the management of spasticity, and other ALS-related symptoms. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12883-019-1443-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Meyer
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany. .,Ambulanzpartner Soziotechnologie APST GmbH, Westhafenstr. 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Andreas Funke
- Neurologische Facharztpraxis, Lessingstraße 24, 15745, Wildau, Germany
| | - Christoph Münch
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Ambulanzpartner Soziotechnologie APST GmbH, Westhafenstr. 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dagmar Kettemann
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - André Maier
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bertram Walter
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annett Thomas
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Spittel
- Centre for ALS and other motor neuron disorders, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Ambulanzpartner Soziotechnologie APST GmbH, Westhafenstr. 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
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Marvulli R, Megna M, Citraro A, Vacca E, Napolitano M, Gallo G, Fiore P, Ianieri G. Botulinum Toxin Type A and Physiotherapy in Spasticity of the Lower Limbs Due to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11070381. [PMID: 31266172 PMCID: PMC6669765 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11070381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease (unknown pathogenesis) of the central nervous system that causes death within 1-5 years. Clinically, flabby paralysis, areflexia, muscular atrophy, and muscle fasciculations, signs of II motor neuron damage, appear. Sometimes, clinical manifestations of damage of the I motor neuron come out in lower limbs; spastic paralysis, iperflexia, and clonus emerge, and they impair deambulation and management of activities of daily living, such as personal hygiene or dressing. Thus, the first therapeutic approach in these patients involves antispasmodic drugs orally followed by botulinum toxin type A injection (BTX-A). In this study, we study the efficacy of BTX-A and physiotherapy in lower limb spasticity due to ALS and no response to treatment with oral antispastic drugs. We evaluated 15 patients (10 male and five female), with a mean age of 48.06 ± 5.2 with spasticity of adductor magnus (AM), at baseline (T0, before BTX-A treatment) and in the following three follow-up visits (T1 30 days, T2 60 days, and T3 90 days after infiltration). We evaluated myometric measure of muscle tone, the Modified Ashworth Scale of AM, Barthel Index, Adductor Tone Rating Scale, and Hygiene Score. The study was conducted between November 2018 and April 2019. We treated AM with incobotulinum toxin type A (Xeomin®, Merz). Spasticity (myometric measurement, Adductor Tone Rating Scale, and Modified Ashworth Scale) and clinical (Barthel Index and Hygiene Score) improvements were obtained for 90 days after injection (p < 0.05). Our study shows the possibility of using BTX-A in the treatment of spasticity in patients with ALS and no response to oral antispastic drugs, with no side effects. The limitation of the study is the small number of patients and the limited time of observation; therefore, it is important to increase both the number of patients and the observation time in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Marvulli
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Marisa Megna
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Aurora Citraro
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Ester Vacca
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Marina Napolitano
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Giulia Gallo
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Fiore
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ianieri
- Department of Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", G. Cesare Place 11, 70125 Bari, Italy
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Exploring the Use of Educational Material About Shoulder Dysfunction: A Quality Improvement Project in People With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 97:379-382. [PMID: 29303793 PMCID: PMC5903949 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Shoulder pain is a common secondary complication of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that can contribute to functional decline and decreased participation in daily activities. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of an educational brochure aimed at improving knowledge regarding shoulder pain and dysfunction in people with ALS. Participants completed a preintervention survey with questions regarding their knowledge of how ALS may affect their shoulders. After completing the presurvey, they were mailed a brochure that described shoulder health and range of motion and stretching exercises. Four weeks after receiving the brochure, participants were then asked to determine the effectiveness of the educational materials in terms of impact on shoulder-related knowledge and self-efficacy with regard to prevention of shoulder pain and dysfunction. More than 50% of participants reported pain, decreased range of motion, or weakness in at least one shoulder since being diagnosed with ALS. All participants were interested in receiving educational materials, and all agreed that the brochure was easy to interpret and understand, with most (87%) reporting that it was helpful. Educational brochures are one strategy to improve awareness about shoulder health and to educate patients with ALS about exercises that may help reduce shoulder pain and dysfunction.
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Lai X, Gu X, Yang X, Sun J, Jiang M, Bu B, Feng G, Li L. Motor neurone disease-associated neck pain misdiagnosed as cervical spondylosis: A case report and literature review. J Clin Neurosci 2018; 55:112-115. [PMID: 30257805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2018.06.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor neurone disease (MND) is a chronic, progressive and currently incurable neurodegenerative disorder. Although pain as a symptom appears in many patients with MND, it is often misdiagnosed as other diseases when occurs before the onset of weakness. Patients are often assigned to non-neurological departments due to the atypical symptoms, which can lead to diagnostic delay and inappropriate treatment. OBJECTIVE To analyze the causes of misdiagnosis and improve the clinician's understanding of neck pain in patients with MND. METHODS We reviewed relevant literature and retrospectively reported a misdiagnosis case of MND-associated neck pain. RESULTS A case of MND presenting prominently as neck pain was suspected of suffering from cervical spondylosis and wrongly assigned to orthopedic clinic. When eventually being diagnosed as MND, his neck pain was found to be caused by intracranial hypertension (ICH) resulting from hypoxia via insidious respiratory failure through ventilator insufficiency. CONCLUSION Careful evaluation of the clinical progression of the symptoms, extensive EMG and nerve conduction study, as well as the establishment of better clinical approach to the diagnosis and higher public awareness allow a reduction of misdiagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyin Lai
- Department of Neurology, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China
| | - Xiaju Gu
- Department of Neurology, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China
| | - Xuelian Yang
- Department of Neurology, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China
| | - Jialan Sun
- Department of Neurology, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China
| | - Mei Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China
| | - Bitao Bu
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave., Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Gang Feng
- Intensive Care Unit, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 219 Miaopu Rd, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China.
| | - Longxuan Li
- Department of Neurology, Gongli Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200135, PR China.
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Ren Y, Liu W, Li Y, Sun B, Li Y, Yang F, Wang H, Li M, Cui F, Huang X. Cutaneous somatic and autonomic nerve TDP-43 deposition in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2018; 265:1753-1763. [PMID: 29804146 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8897-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the involvement of the sensory and autonomic nervous system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and to determine whether TDP-43/pTDP-43 deposits in skin nerve fibers signify a valuable biomarker for ALS. METHODS Eighteen patients with ALS and 18 age- and sex-matched control subjects underwent physical examinations, in addition to donating skin biopsies from the distal leg. The density of epidermal, Meissner's corpuscle (MC), sudomotor, and pilomotor nerve fibers were measured. Confocal microscopy was used to determine the cutaneous somatic and autonomic nerve fiber density and TDP-43/pTDP-43 deposition. RESULTS Intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) was reduced in individuals with ALS (P < 0.001). MC density (MCD) (P = 0.001), sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD) (P < 0.001), and pilomotor nerve fiber density (PNFD) (P < 0.001) were all reduced in ALS patients. The SGNFD correlated with the small-fiber neuropathy Symptoms Inventory Questionnaire (SFN-SIQ), VAS and age. The SFN-SIQ was higher in ALS with sensory symptoms than without sensory symptoms (P = 0.000). Furthermore, the SFN-SIQ was higher in ALS with autonomic symptoms than without autonomic symptoms (P = 0.002). SFN-SIQ was higher in ALS patients that were pTDP-43 positive than pTDP-43 negative (P = 0.04), respectively. CONCLUSIONS We established in the peripheral nervous system that higher SFN-SIQ and VAS was involved in ALS, indicating the loss of SGNF. The deposition of TDP-43/pTDP-43 in ALS nerve fibers may indicate an important role in the underlying pathogenesis of ALS. This observation might be used as a potential biomarker for diagnosing ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Ren
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxiu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Bo Sun
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yanran Li
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Hongfen Wang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Mao Li
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Fang Cui
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Xusheng Huang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
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Els C, Jackson TD, Hagtvedt R, Kunyk D, Sonnenberg B, Lappi VG, Straube S. High-dose opioids for chronic non-cancer pain: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 10:CD012299. [PMID: 29084358 PMCID: PMC6485814 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012299.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain is typically described as pain on most days for at least three months. Chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) is any chronic pain that is not due to a malignancy. Chronic non-cancer pain in adults is a common and complex clinical issue where opioids are routinely used for pain management. There are concerns that the use of high doses of opioids for chronic non-cancer pain lacks evidence of effectiveness and may increase the risk of adverse events. OBJECTIVES To describe the evidence from Cochrane Reviews and Overviews regarding the efficacy and safety of high-dose opioids (here defined as 200 mg morphine equivalent or more per day) for chronic non-cancer pain. METHODS We identified Cochrane Reviews and Overviews through a search of the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (The Cochrane Library). The date of the last search was 18 April 2017. Two review authors independently assessed the search results. We planned to analyse data on any opioid agent used at high dose for two weeks or more for the treatment of chronic non-cancer pain in adults. MAIN RESULTS We did not identify any reviews or overviews meeting the inclusion criteria. The excluded reviews largely reflected low doses or titrated doses where all doses were analysed as a single group; no data for high dose only could be extracted. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is a critical lack of high-quality evidence regarding how well high-dose opioids work for the management of chronic non-cancer pain in adults, and regarding the presence and severity of adverse events. No evidence-based argument can be made on the use of high-dose opioids, i.e. 200 mg morphine equivalent or more daily, in clinical practice. Trials typically used doses below our cut-off; we need to know the efficacy and harm of higher doses, which are often used in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charl Els
- University of AlbertaDepartment of PsychiatryEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Tanya D Jackson
- University of AlbertaDepartment of Medicine, Division of Preventive MedicineEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Reidar Hagtvedt
- University of AlbertaAOIS, Alberta School of BusinessEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Diane Kunyk
- University of AlbertaFaculty of NursingEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Barend Sonnenberg
- Workers' Compensation Board of AlbertaMedical ServicesEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Vernon G Lappi
- University of AlbertaDepartment of Medicine, Division of Preventive MedicineEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Sebastian Straube
- University of AlbertaDepartment of Medicine, Division of Preventive MedicineEdmontonAlbertaCanada
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Dorst J, Ludolph AC, Huebers A. Disease-modifying and symptomatic treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2017; 11:1756285617734734. [PMID: 29399045 PMCID: PMC5784546 DOI: 10.1177/1756285617734734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the most important recent developments in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In terms of disease-modifying treatment options, several drugs such as dexpramipexole, pioglitazone, lithium, and many others have been tested in large multicenter trials, albeit with disappointing results. Therefore, riluzole remains the only directly disease-modifying drug. In addition, we discuss antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) as a new and potentially causal treatment option. Progress in symptomatic treatments has been more important. Nutrition and ventilation are now an important focus of ALS therapy. Several studies have firmly established that noninvasive ventilation improves patients' quality of life and prolongs survival. On the other hand, there is still no consensus regarding best nutritional management, but big multicenter trials addressing this issue are currently ongoing. Evidence regarding secondary symptoms like spasticity, muscle cramps or sialorrhea remains generally scarce, but some new insights will also be discussed. Growing evidence suggests that multidisciplinary care in specialized clinics improves survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Dorst
- Universitätsklinik Ulm, RKU, Oberer Eselsberg 45, D-89081 Ulm, Germany
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Pain in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Lancet Neurol 2017; 16:144-157. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(16)30358-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Ng L, Khan F, Young CA, Galea M. Symptomatic treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 1:CD011776. [PMID: 28072907 PMCID: PMC6469543 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011776.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor neuron disease (MND), which is also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), causes a wide range of symptoms but the evidence base for the effectiveness of the symptomatic treatment therapies is limited. OBJECTIVES To summarise the evidence from Cochrane Systematic Reviews of all symptomatic treatments for MND. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) on 15 November 2016 for systematic reviews of symptomatic treatments for MND. We assessed the methodological quality of the included reviews using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) tool and the GRADE approach. We followed standard Cochrane study (review) selection and data extraction procedures. We reported findings narratively and in tables. MAIN RESULTS We included nine Cochrane Systematic Reviews of interventions to treat symptoms in people with MND. Three were empty reviews with no included randomised controlled trials (RCTs); however, all three reported on non-RCT evidence and the remaining six included mostly one or two studies. We deemed all of the included reviews of high methodological quality. Drug therapy for painThere is no RCT evidence in a Cochrane Systematic Review exploring the efficacy of drug therapy for pain in MND. Treatment for crampsThere is evidence (13 RCTs, N = 4012) that for the treatment of cramps in MND, compared to placebo:- memantine and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are probably ineffective (moderate-quality evidence);- vitamin E may have little or no effect (low-quality evidence); and- the effects of L-threonine, gabapentin, xaliproden, riluzole, and baclofen are uncertain as the evidence is either very low quality or the trial specified the outcome but did not report numerical data.The review reported adverse effects of riluzole, but it is not clear whether other interventions had adverse effects. Treatment for spasticityIt is uncertain whether an endurance-based exercise programme improved spasticity or quality of life, measured at three months after the programme, as the quality of evidence is very low (1 RCT, comparison "usual activities", N = 25). The review did not evaluate other approaches, such as use of baclofen as no RCTs were available. Mechanical ventilation for supporting respiratory functionNon-invasive ventilation (NIV) probably improves median survival and quality of life in people with respiratory insufficiency and normal to moderately impaired bulbar function compared to standard care, and improves quality of life but not survival for people with poor bulbar function (1 RCT, N = 41, moderate-quality evidence; a second RCT did not provide data). The review did not evaluate other approaches such as tracheostomy-assisted ('invasive') ventilation, or assess timing of NIV initiation. Treatment for sialorrhoeaA single session of botulinum toxin type B injections to parotid and submandibular glands probably improves sialorrhoea and quality of life at up to 4 weeks compared to placebo injections, but not at 8 or 12 weeks after the injections (moderate-quality evidence from 1 placebo-controlled RCT, N = 20). The review authors found no trials of other approaches. Enteral tube feeding for supporting nutritionThere is no RCT evidence in a Cochrane Systematic Review to support benefit or harms of enteral tube feeding in supporting nutrition in MND. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulationIt is uncertain whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improves disability or limitation in activity in MND in comparison with sham rTMS (3 RCTs, very low quality evidence, N = 50). Therapeutic exerciseThere is evidence that exercise may improve disability in MND at three months after the exercise programme, but not quality of life, in comparison with "usual activities" or "usual care" including stretching (2 RCTs, low-quality evidence, N = 43). Multidisciplinary careThere is no RCT evidence in a Cochrane Systematic Review to demonstrate any benefit or harm for multidisciplinary care in MND.None of the reviews, other than the review of treatment for cramps, reported that adverse events occurred. However, the trials were too small for reliable adverse event reporting. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This overview has highlighted the lack of robust evidence in Cochrane Systematic Reviews on interventions to manage symptoms resulting from MND. It is important to recognise that clinical trials may fail to demonstrate efficacy of an intervention for reasons other than a true lack of efficacy, for example because of insufficient statistical power, the wrong choice of dose, insensitive outcome measures or inappropriate participant eligibility. The trials were mostly too small to reliably assess adverse effects of the treatments. The nature of MND makes it difficult to research clinically accepted or recommended practice, regardless of the level of evidence supporting the practice. It would not be ethical, for example, to design a placebo-controlled trial for treatment of pain in MND or to withhold multidisciplinary care where such care is available. It is therefore highly unlikely that there will ever be classically designed placebo-controlled RCTs in these areas.We need more research with appropriate study designs, robust methodology, and of sufficient duration to address the changing needs-of people with MND and their caregivers-associated with MND disease progression and mortality. There is a significant gap in studies assessing the effectiveness of interventions for symptoms relating to MND, such as pseudobulbar emotional lability and cognitive and behavioural difficulties. Future studies should use appropriate outcome measures that are reliable, have internal and external validity, and are sensitive to change in what is being measured (such as quality of life).
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Ng
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, Royal Park CampusDepartment of Rehabilitation MedicinePoplar RoadParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3052
| | - Fary Khan
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, Royal Park CampusDepartment of Rehabilitation MedicinePoplar RoadParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3052
- Monash UniversityDisability Inclusive Unit, Nossal Institute of Global Health & School of Public Health and Preventative MedicineThe Alfred Centre99 Commercial RoadMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3004
- University of MelbourneDepartment of MedicinePoplar RoadParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3052
- Royal Melbourne HospitalAustralian Rehabilitation Research CentreMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Carolyn A Young
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation TrustLower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolUKL9 7LJ
| | - Mary Galea
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, Royal Park CampusDepartment of Rehabilitation MedicinePoplar RoadParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3052
- University of MelbourneDepartment of MedicinePoplar RoadParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3052
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Hobson EV, McDermott CJ. Supportive and symptomatic management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol 2016; 12:526-38. [PMID: 27514291 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2016.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The main aims in the care of individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are to minimize morbidity and maximize quality of life. Although no cure exists for ALS, supportive and symptomatic care provided by a specialist multidisciplinary team can improve survival. The basis for supportive management is shifting from expert consensus guidelines towards an evidence-based approach, which encourages the use of effective treatments and could reduce the risk of harm caused by ineffective or unsafe interventions. For example, respiratory support using noninvasive ventilation has been demonstrated to improve survival and quality of life, whereas evidence supporting other respiratory interventions is insufficient. Increasing evidence implicates a causal role for metabolic dysfunction in ALS, suggesting that optimizing nutrition could improve quality of life and survival. The high incidence of cognitive dysfunction and its impact on prognosis is increasingly recognized, although evidence for effective treatments is lacking. A variety of strategies are used to manage the other physical and psychological symptoms, the majority of which have yet to be thoroughly evaluated. The need for specialist palliative care throughout the disease is increasingly recognized. This Review describes the current approaches to symptomatic and supportive care in ALS and outlines the current guidance and evidence for these strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther V Hobson
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd, Sheffield, S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Christopher J McDermott
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd, Sheffield, S10 2HQ, UK
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de Tommaso M, Arendt-Nielsen L, Defrin R, Kunz M, Pickering G, Valeriani M. Pain in Neurodegenerative Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives. Behav Neurol 2016; 2016:7576292. [PMID: 27313396 PMCID: PMC4904074 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7576292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are going to increase as the life expectancy is getting longer. The management of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementias, Parkinson's disease (PD) and PD related disorders, motor neuron diseases (MND), Huntington's disease (HD), spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), is mainly addressed to motor and cognitive impairment, with special care to vital functions as breathing and feeding. Many of these patients complain of painful symptoms though their origin is variable, and their presence is frequently not considered in the treatment guidelines, leaving their management to the decision of the clinicians alone. However, studies focusing on pain frequency in such disorders suggest a high prevalence of pain in selected populations from 38 to 75% in AD, 40% to 86% in PD, and 19 to 85% in MND. The methods of pain assessment vary between studies so the type of pain has been rarely reported. However, a prevalent nonneuropathic origin of pain emerged for MND and PD. In AD, no data on pain features are available. No controlled therapeutic trials and guidelines are currently available. Given the relevance of pain in neurodegenerative disorders, the comprehensive understanding of mechanisms and predisposing factors, the application and validation of specific scales, and new specific therapeutic trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina de Tommaso
- Neurophysiopathology of Pain Section, SMBNOS Department, Bari Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Ruth Defrin
- Department of Physical Therapy, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Miriam Kunz
- Department of General Practice, Section Gerontology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Gisele Pickering
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Centre de Pharmacologie Clinique, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Inserm, CIC 1405, Neurodol 1107, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Massimiliano Valeriani
- Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Division of Neurology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Rudnicki S, McVey AL, Jackson CE, Dimachkie MM, Barohn RJ. Symptom Management and End-of-Life Care in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurol Clin 2015; 33:889-908. [PMID: 26515628 PMCID: PMC5031364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2015.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The number of available symptomatic treatments has markedly enhanced the care of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Once thought to be untreatable, patients with ALS today clearly benefit from multidisciplinary care. The impact of such care on the disease course, including rate of progression and mortality, has surpassed the treatment effects commonly sought in clinical drug trials. Unfortunately, there are few randomized controlled trials of medications or interventions addressing symptom management. In this review, the authors provide the level of evidence, when available, for each intervention that is currently considered standard of care by consensus opinion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Rudnicki
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 501 Jackson Stephens Drive, Room 769, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205-7199
| | - April L. McVey
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Dept. of Neurology, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Mailstop 2012, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Carlayne E. Jackson
- University of Texas Health Science Center, 8300 Floyd Curl Drive, Mail Code 7883, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900
| | - Mazen M. Dimachkie
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Dept. of Neurology, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Mailstop 2012, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Richard J. Barohn
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Dept. of Neurology, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Mailstop 2012, Kansas City, KS 66160
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Ng L, Khan F, Young CA. Symptomatic treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Hanisch F, Skudlarek A, Berndt J, Kornhuber ME. Characteristics of pain in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Brain Behav 2015; 5:e00296. [PMID: 25642388 PMCID: PMC4309879 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain is an often underestimated and neglected symptom in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS In a cross-sectional survey, 46 patients with ALS, 46 age- and gender matched population-based controls, and 23 diseased controls with myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2) were screened for occurrence, type, distribution, and treatment of pain and cramps. Data were collected with the use of the short form brief pain inventory (BPI). RESULTS Pain was reported in 78% of ALS patients,79% of DM2 patients, and 54% of controls (P<0.05). More ALS patients than controls reported moderate to severe pain (42% vs. 20%). Pain in ALS patients interfered significantly more with daily activities than in controls (median pain interference score: 3.0 vs. 1.2, P<0.05), especially enjoyment of life (5.0 vs. 1.0) and mood (3.0 vs. 1.0). There was no correlation between the duration of the disease and the severity of pain. Movement-induced cramps were reported in 63% of ALS patients, mostly in the distal extremities. There was no difference in the duration of ALS disease between patients reporting cramps and those who did not. DISCUSSION Our study showed that pain was a relatively frequent symptom which had an important impact on the quality of life. Pain that requires treatment can occur at every stage of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Hanisch
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, Halle (Saale), D-06120, Germany
| | - Anika Skudlarek
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, Halle (Saale), D-06120, Germany
| | - Janine Berndt
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, Halle (Saale), D-06120, Germany
| | - Malte E Kornhuber
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, Halle (Saale), D-06120, Germany
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Berliocchi L, Maiarù M, Varano GP, Russo R, Corasaniti MT, Bagetta G, Tassorelli C. Spinal autophagy is differently modulated in distinct mouse models of neuropathic pain. Mol Pain 2015; 11:3. [PMID: 25645145 PMCID: PMC4417307 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-11-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autophagy is a homeostatic degradative process essential for basal turnover of long-lived proteins and organelles as well as for removal of dysfunctional cellular components. Dysregulation of the autophagic machinery has been recently associated to several conditions including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, but only very few studies have investigated its role in pain processing. Results We previously described autophagy impairment at the spinal cord in the experimental model of neuropathic pain induced by spinal nerve ligation (SNL). In this study, we characterized the main autophagic markers in two other common experimental models of neuropathic pain, the chronic constriction injury (CCI) and the spared nerve injury (SNI). The different modulation of LC3-I, Beclin 1 and p62 suggested that autophagy is differentially affected in the spinal dorsal horn depending on the type of peripheral injury. Confocal analysis of p62 distribution in the spinal dorsal horn indicated its presence mainly in NeuN-positive cell bodies and occasionally in glial processes, thus suggesting a predominant expression in the neuronal compartment. Finally, we investigated the consequences of autophagy impairment on pain behaviour by using the autophagy blocker cloroquine. Intrathecal chloroquine injection in naïve mice induced spinal accumulation of LC3 and p62 paralleled by significant mechanical hypersensitivity thus confirming the block in autophagosome clearance and suggesting the participation of the autophagic process in spinal mechanisms of pain processing. Altogether, our data indicate that spinal autophagy is differentially altered in different experimental pain models of neuropathic pain and that this process may be relevant for pain control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Berliocchi
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy. .,Centre of Neuropharmacology of Normal and Pathological Synaptic Plasticity, University Consortium for Adaptive Disorders and Head Pain, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy.
| | - Maria Maiarù
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy.
| | | | - Rossella Russo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy.
| | | | - Giacinto Bagetta
- Centre of Neuropharmacology of Normal and Pathological Synaptic Plasticity, University Consortium for Adaptive Disorders and Head Pain, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy. .,Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy.
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy. .,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Paganoni S, Karam C, Joyce N, Bedlack R, Carter GT. Comprehensive rehabilitative care across the spectrum of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. NeuroRehabilitation 2015; 37:53-68. [PMID: 26409693 PMCID: PMC5223769 DOI: 10.3233/nre-151240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease) is a neurodegenerative disease that results in progressive muscle weakness and wasting. There is no known cure and the disease is uniformly fatal. PURPOSE This review discusses current concepts in ALS care, from breaking the diagnosis to end-of-life care. People with ALS have several multidisciplinary needs due to a complex and dynamic disease process. They benefit from rehabilitation interventions that are individualized and have the goal of optimizing independence, function, and safety. These strategies also help minimize symptomatic burden and maximize quality of life. CONCLUSION Patient-centered, multidisciplinary care has a significant impact on the life of people with ALS and is the current standard of care for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Paganoni
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston VA Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chafic Karam
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nanette Joyce
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Neuromuscular Section, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Richard Bedlack
- Duke University School of Medicine and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gregory T Carter
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, Spokane, WA, USA
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25
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Majmudar S, Wu J, Paganoni S. Rehabilitation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: why it matters. Muscle Nerve 2014; 50:4-13. [PMID: 24510737 PMCID: PMC4433000 DOI: 10.1002/mus.24202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that results in a constellation of problematic symptoms and a high patient and caregiver burden. Multidisciplinary care includes rehabilitation interventions that have the goal of assisting people to teach their fullest potential despite the presence of a disabling disease. Given the progressive nature of ALS, the clinician must be aware of the expected disease trajectory and apply appropriate interventions at each stage. This review will present rehabilitation strategies that can be utilized to maximize patient independence, function, safety, and quality of life, and to minimize disease-related symptoms. The role of bracing, exercise, assistive devices, and adaptive equipment will be discussed. At each disease stage, an experienced rehabilitation team is well positioned to make a significant impact on the life of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salony Majmudar
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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