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Li X, Chen M, Barkhaus PE, Nandedkar SD, Schmit B, Zhou P. F wave analysis based on the compound muscle action potential scan. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 38963007 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Conventional F wave analysis involves a relatively uniform physiological environment induced by supramaximal stimulations. The F wave characteristics in a dynamic physiological condition, however, are rarely investigated. This study aimed to improve understanding of F wave properties in the more dynamic process by introducing a novel method to analyze F waves based on the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) scan technique. METHODS Twenty four healthy subjects participated in the study. The CMAP scan was applied to record muscle responses in the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) and abductor digiti minimi (ADM) muscles, respectively. F wave characteristics including mean F wave amplitude and latency (F-M latency), persistence and activating threshold were quantified. RESULTS An average of 200 F waves per muscle were obtained from the CMAP scan recording. Weak to moderate correlations between F wave amplitude and stimulating intensity were observed in most of the APB (19 muscles; r = 0.33 ± 0.14, all p < .05) and ADM (23 muscles, r = 0.46 ± 0.16, all p < .05) muscles. Significantly longer mean F latency and lower activating F-threshold were found in the ADM muscles (F-M latency: APB: 25.43 ± 2.39 ms, ADM: 26.15 ± 2.32 ms, p < .05; F-threshold: APB: 7.68 ± 8.96% CMAP, ADM: 2.35 ± 2.42% CMAP, p < .05). DISCUSSION This study introduces new features of F waves using the CMAP scan technique and identifies differences of F wave characteristics between the hand muscles. The CMAP scan based F waves analysis can be combined with the motor unit number estimation to assess functional alterations in motor neurons in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Maoqi Chen
- School of Rehabilitation Science and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Paul E Barkhaus
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sanjeev D Nandedkar
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Natus Medical, Inc, Middleton, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Brian Schmit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ping Zhou
- School of Rehabilitation Science and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
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Milella G, Zoccolella S, Giugno A, Filardi M, D'Errico E, Piccirilli G, Nanni AG, Urso D, Nigro S, Tafuri B, Tamburrino L, Gnoni V, Logroscino G. Mapping lower-limbs muscle vulnerability in patients with ALS: The role of upper and lower motor neurons. J Neurol Sci 2024; 462:123098. [PMID: 38879961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123098] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have reported disproportionate wasting of the flexor muscles of the lower limbs (LL) compared to the extensors in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, these studies have involved small sample sizes (n 〈100), and their findings have been inconsistent. Thus, it remains uncertain whether a distinct pattern of LL muscle weakness is specific to ALS. AIMS To investigate the muscle weakness pattern in the LL at the knee, ankle, and toes in a large cohort of ALS patients and evaluate the relationship between the pattern of muscle strength and the extent of upper (UMN) and lower (LMN) motoneuron impairment. MATERIAL AND METHODS The strength of flexor and extensor muscle was evaluated in 1250 legs of newly diagnosed ALS patients at the knee, ankle, and foot toes. UMN and LMN burden were assessed using validated scores. Within-subjects ANOVA considering the type of muscle (flexor/extensor) and anatomical sites (knee/ankle/toes) and mixed-factorial ANOVA were conducted to explore the impact of UMN and LMN impairments on the muscle weakness pattern. RESULTS Muscle strength showed a significant decline from proximal to distal regions. Indeed both flexor and extensor muscles at the knee outperformed those at the ankle and toes. Within each site, extensor muscles exhibited less strength than flexor, except at the knee. Patients with heightened UMN impairment showed a more marked difference between flexors and extensors within each site, with extensor muscles being more compromised at the ankle and toes. Higher LMN impairment corresponded to a more pronounced weakness in flexor muscles at the ankle and toes compared to those at the knee. CONCLUSIONS The extensor muscle at the knee and the flexors at the foot and toes displayed relative resistance to ALS disease. UMN impairment amplified the differences between flexor and extensor muscles within each site, while LMN impairment demonstrated a clear distal-to-proximal vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giammarco Milella
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Stefano Zoccolella
- ASL Bari, San Paolo Hospital, Neurology Unit, Bari, Italy; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy.
| | - Alessia Giugno
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Marco Filardi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Eustachio D'Errico
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Glauco Piccirilli
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Alfredo Gabriele Nanni
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Daniele Urso
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Salvatore Nigro
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Benedetta Tafuri
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Ludovica Tamburrino
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Valentina Gnoni
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and the Aging Brain at the Hospital "C. Panico" Tricase (Lecce) (University of Bari), Italy
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Zoccolella S, Milella G, Giugno A, Filardi M, D'Errico E, Tamburrino L, Devitofrancesco V, Damato R, Piomboni F, Misceo S, Logroscino G. Nerve conduction study on the split-hand plus index in Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: correlations with lower motor neuron impairment. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07582-w. [PMID: 38743164 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07582-w] [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: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the arms of patients with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) two peculiar patterns of dissociated muscular atrophy have been described: the split-hand sign (with predominant atrophy of the lateral aspect of the hand, compared to hypothenar eminence) and the split-hand-plus sign (SHPS), a predominant abductor pollicis brevis (ABP) atrophy with sparing of flexor pollicis longus (FPL). AIMS In this case-control study, we evaluated the diagnostic utility of a neurophysiological indicator of SHPS and assessed its association with clinical features. METHODS We prospectively studied 59 incident ALS patients, 61 patients with ALS-mimic disorders (OND) and 61 non-neurological controls (NNCs). ABP and FPL compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) amplitudes were obtained by supramaximal stimulation of median nerve at elbow. Split-hand plus index (SHPI) was calculated according to the formula: APB-CMAP/FPL-CMAP. RESULTS SHPI was significantly lower in ALS compared to OND patients and NNCs (p < 0.0001). SHPI value < 1 was observed in 2% of NNCs and 9% of OND patients and demonstrated an accuracy of 71% in differentiating ALS from OND and an accuracy of 74% in differentiating ALS from NNC. SHPI was associated with higher LMN score, and higher disease severity as quantified by the ALSFRS-r. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that SHPI is a reliable indicator to distinguish ALS patients from ONDs and NNCs. SHPI was significantly associated to the degree of lower motor neuron impairment but showed no association with upper motoneuron impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Zoccolella
- Operative Unit of Neurology, San Paolo Hospital, ASL Bari, Via Caposcardicchio snc, Bari, Italy.
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and The Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione "Cardinale G. Panico" Tricase, Lecce, Italy.
| | - Giammarco Milella
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessia Giugno
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and The Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione "Cardinale G. Panico" Tricase, Lecce, Italy
| | - Marco Filardi
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and The Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione "Cardinale G. Panico" Tricase, Lecce, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Eustachio D'Errico
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Ludovica Tamburrino
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and The Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione "Cardinale G. Panico" Tricase, Lecce, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Vito Devitofrancesco
- Operative Unit of Neurology, San Paolo Hospital, ASL Bari, Via Caposcardicchio snc, Bari, Italy
| | - Rosaria Damato
- Operative Unit of Neurology, San Paolo Hospital, ASL Bari, Via Caposcardicchio snc, Bari, Italy
| | - Fulvia Piomboni
- Operative Unit of Neurology, San Paolo Hospital, ASL Bari, Via Caposcardicchio snc, Bari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Misceo
- Operative Unit of Neurology, San Paolo Hospital, ASL Bari, Via Caposcardicchio snc, Bari, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and The Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione "Cardinale G. Panico" Tricase, Lecce, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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Vucic S, de Carvalho M, Bashford J, Alix JJP. Contribution of neurophysiology to the diagnosis and monitoring of ALS. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:87-118. [PMID: 38802184 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.001] [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: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
This chapter describes the role of neurophysiological techniques in diagnosing and monitoring amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Despite many advances, electromyography (EMG) remains a keystone investigation from which to build support for a diagnosis of ALS, demonstrating the pathophysiological processes of motor unit hyperexcitability, denervation and reinnervation. We consider development of the different diagnostic criteria and the role of EMG therein. While not formally recognised by established diagnostic criteria, we discuss the pioneering studies that have demonstrated the diagnostic potential of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the motor cortex and highlight the growing evidence for TMS in the diagnostic process. Finally, accurately monitoring disease progression is crucial for the successful implementation of clinical trials. Neurophysiological measures of disease state have been incorporated into clinical trials for over 20 years and we review prominent techniques for assessing disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School and Department of Neurology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Department of Neurosciences, CHULN, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - James Bashford
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James J P Alix
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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Zoccolella S, Milella G, Giugno A, Devitofrancesco V, Damato R, Tamburrino L, Misceo S, Filardi M, Logroscino G. Neurophysiological indices for split phenomena: correlation with age and sex and potential implications in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1371953. [PMID: 38515451 PMCID: PMC10956616 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1371953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Split phenomena (SP) are characterized by patterns of differential muscle wasting and atrophy, which are highly prevalent in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. Several neurophysiological indicators, including the split-hand index (SHI), split-leg index (SLI), and split-elbow index (SEI), have been proposed to assess SP. Nevertheless, their cutoff values and the impact of age and sex on these measures remain unclear. Methods We prospectively collected neurophysiological data from 300 healthy adult subjects. The following indices were measured from compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs): SHI [abductor pollicis brevis (APBcmap) x first dorsal interosseous (FDI)cmap/adductor digiti minimi (ADMcmap)], SEI (BICEPScmap/TRICEPScmap), SLI (extensor digit brevis (EDB)cmap/abductor Hallucis (AH)cmap), and the neurophysiological ratios APBcmap /ADMcmap and FDIcmap/ADMcmap. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to investigate the association between age, sex, CMAPs, and neurophysiological indicators. Results The median SHI was 10.4, with a median APBcmap/ADMcmap ratio of 0.9 and a median FDIcmap/ADMcmap ratio of 1.2. The median SEI was 1.6 (IQR:1.1-2.4) and the median SLI was 0.7 (IQR:0.5-1.0). Negative associations were observed between age, most of the CMAPs, and all the neurophysiological indices, except for SLI. The male subjects exhibited significantly higher CMAP values for the first dorsal interosseous (FDI), biceps, and SHI compared to the female participants. Conclusion Our findings highlight the importance of age- and sex-adjusted normative data for SP indices, which could enhance their diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility in patients with ALS. The SL index appears to be the most reliable indicator, as it showed no significant association with age or sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Zoccolella
- Neurology Unit, San Paolo Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Bari, Bari, Italy
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy
| | - Giammarco Milella
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessia Giugno
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy
| | - Vito Devitofrancesco
- Neurology Unit, San Paolo Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Rosaria Damato
- Neurology Unit, San Paolo Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Ludovica Tamburrino
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Misceo
- Neurology Unit, San Paolo Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Marco Filardi
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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de Souza PVS, Serrano PDL, Farias IB, Machado RIL, Badia BDML, de Oliveira HB, Barbosa AS, Pereira CA, Moreira VDF, Chieia MAT, Barbosa AR, Braga VL, Pinto WBVDR, Oliveira ASB. Clinical and Genetic Aspects of Juvenile Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Promising Era Emerges. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:311. [PMID: 38540369 PMCID: PMC10969870 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Juvenile Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a genetically heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder, which is frequently misdiagnosed due to low clinical suspicion and little knowledge about disease characteristics. More than 20 different genetic loci have been associated with both sporadic and familial juvenile Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Currently, almost 40% of cases have an identifiable monogenic basis; type 6, associated with FUS gene variants, is the most prevalent globally. Despite several upper motor neuron-dominant forms being generally associated with long-standing motor symptoms and slowly progressive course, certain subtypes with lower motor neuron-dominant features and early bulbar compromise lead to rapidly progressive motor handicap. For some monogenic forms, there is a well-established genotypic-phenotypic correlation. There are no specific biochemical and neuroimaging biomarkers for the diagnosis of juvenile Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. There are several inherited neurodegenerative and neurometabolic disorders which can lead to the signs of motor neuron impairment. This review emphasizes the importance of high clinical suspicion, assessment, and proper diagnostic work-up for juvenile Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Victor Sgobbi de Souza
- Motor Neuron Disease Unit, Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP), Sao Paulo 04039-060, Brazil; (P.d.L.S.); (W.B.V.d.R.P.)
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de Carvalho M, Swash M. Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of MND/ALS: IFCN handbook chapter. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2023; 9:27-38. [PMID: 38249779 PMCID: PMC10796809 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
•Accurate and rapid diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is important to prevent erroneous interventions. •The recent Gold Coast criteria are easily applicable and have high sensitivity and specificity. •Future developments will help to distinguish ALS as a specific clinical-pathologic entity. Accurate and rapid diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is essential in order to provide accurate information for patient and family, to avoid time-consuming investigations and to permit an appropriate management plan. ALS is variable regarding presentation, disease progression, genetic profile and patient reaction to the diagnosis. It is obviously important to exclude treatable conditions but, in most patients, for experienced neurologists the diagnosis is clear-cut, depending on the presence of progressive upper and lower motor neuron signs. Patients with signs of restricted lower motor neuron (LMN) or upper motor neuron (UMN) dysfunction may present diagnostic difficulty, but electromyography (EMG) is often a determinant diagnostic test since it may exclude other disorders. Transcranial magnetic stimulation may aid detection of UMN dysfunction, and brain and spinal cord MRI, ultrasound and blood neurofilament measurements, have begun to have clinical impact, although none are themselves diagnostic tests. Several sets of diagnostic criteria have been proposed in the past; all rely on clinical LMN and UMN signs in different anatomic territories, EMG changes, exclusion of other disorders, and disease progression, in particular evidence of spreading to other anatomic territories. Fasciculations are a characteristic clinical feature and increased importance is now attached to fasciculation potentials detected by EMG, when associated with classical signs of denervation and reinnervation. The Gold Coast diagnostic criteria rely on the presence of UMN and LMN signs in one (or more) anatomic territory, or LMN signs in two (or more) anatomic territories, recognizing the fundamental clinical requirements of disease progression and exclusion of other diseases. Recent studies confirm a high sensitivity without loss of specificity using these Gold Coast criteria. In considering the diagnosis of ALS a critical question for future understanding is whether ALS should be considered a syndrome or a specific clinico-pathologic entity; this can only be addressed in the light of more complete knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamede de Carvalho
- Faculdade de Medicina- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa-Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Michael Swash
- Faculdade de Medicina- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosciences, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London and Royal London Hospital, UK
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Pavey N, Hannaford A, Higashihara M, van den Bos M, Kiernan MC, Menon P, Vucic S. Utility of split hand index with different motor unit number estimation techniques in ALS. Clin Neurophysiol 2023; 156:175-182. [PMID: 37967511 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2023.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Utility of the split hand index (SI) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been reported when using the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude method (SICMAP amp). A motor unit number index (MUNIX) based SI method (SIMUNIX) was purported to exhibit higher sensitivity. The present study assessed the clinical utility of SI, derived by CMAP amplitude, MUNIX and MScan-MUNE (SIMScanFit-MUNE) methods, in ALS. METHODS Sixty-two consecutive patients with neuromuscular symptoms (36 ALS and 26 ALS-mimics) were prospectively recruited. The SI was derived by dividing the product of the CMAP amplitude, MUNIX and MScan-MUNE values recorded over first dorsal interosseous and abductor pollicis brevis by values recorded over abductor digit minimi. RESULTS SICMAP amp, SIMUNIX and SIMScanFit-MUNE were significantly reduced in ALS, with SICMAP amp (area under curve (AUC) = 0.801) and SIMScanFit-MUNE (AUC = 0.805) exhibiting greater diagnostic utility than SIMUNIX (AUC = 0.713). SICMAP amp and SIMScanFit-MUNE exhibited significant correlations with clinical measures of functional disability and weakness of intrinsic hand muscles. CONCLUSIONS SI differentiated ALS from mimic disorders, with SICMAP amp and SIMScanFit-MUNE exhibiting greater utility. SIGNIFICANCE The split hand index represents could serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Pavey
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Andrew Hannaford
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Mana Higashihara
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mehdi van den Bos
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney; and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Parvathi Menon
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia.
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Santos Silva C, Swash M, de Carvalho M. Exploring the split hand phenomenon with the neurophysiological index. Neurophysiol Clin 2023; 53:102864. [PMID: 37224600 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2023.102864] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In 164 subjects of different age groups, we studied the neurophysiological index (NI) ([CMAP amplitude/Distal motor latency] *[F-wave frequency]; CMAP=compound muscle action potential) for three hand muscles (APB= abductor pollicis brevis; FDI= first dorsal interosseous; ADM= abductor digiti minimi). A split hand index based on CMAP amplitude (SHI_CMAP) and NI (SHI_NI) were calculated ([APB CMAP amplitude or NI * FDI CMAP amplitude or NI]/[ADM CMAP amplitude or NI]). All these neurophysiological measurements differed between age groups (p<0.001). Hand muscle NIs, as well as SHI_NI and SHI_CMAP were age dependent. This may be relevant for diagnostic purposes in motor neuron diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Santos Silva
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa-Norte, Lisbon, Portugal; Faculdade de Medicina- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Michael Swash
- Faculdade de Medicina- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London and Royal London Hospital, UK
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa-Norte, Lisbon, Portugal; Faculdade de Medicina- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Mazzaro A, Vita V, Ronfini M, Casola I, Klein A, Dobrowolny G, Sorarù G, Musarò A, Mongillo M, Zaglia T. Sympathetic neuropathology is revealed in muscles affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1165811. [PMID: 37250128 PMCID: PMC10213213 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1165811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: The anatomical substrate of skeletal muscle autonomic innervation has remained underappreciated since it was described many decades ago. As such, the structural and functional features of muscle sympathetic innervation are largely undetermined in both physiology and pathology, mainly due to methodological limitations in the histopathological analysis of small neuronal fibers in tissue samples. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neuromuscular disease which mainly targets motor neurons, and despite autonomic symptoms occurring in a significant fraction of patients, peripheral sympathetic neurons (SNs) are generally considered unaffected and, as such, poorly studied. Purpose: In this research, we compared sympathetic innervation of normal and ALS muscles, through structural analysis of the sympathetic network in human and murine tissue samples. Methods and Results: We first refined tissue processing to circumvent methodological limitations interfering with the detection of muscle sympathetic innervation. The optimized "Neuro Detection Protocol" (NDP) was validated in human muscle biopsies, demonstrating that SNs innervate, at high density, both blood vessels and skeletal myofibers, independent of the fiber metabolic type. Subsequently, NDP was exploited to analyze sympathetic innervation in muscles of SOD1G93A mice, a preclinical ALS model. Our data show that ALS murine muscles display SN denervation, which has already initiated at the early disease stage and worsened during aging. SN degeneration was also observed in muscles of MLC/SOD1G93A mice, with muscle specific expression of the SOD1G93A mutant gene. Notably, similar alterations in SNs were observed in muscle biopsies from an ALS patient, carrying the SOD1G93A mutation. Conclusion: We set up a protocol for the analysis of murine and, more importantly, human muscle sympathetic innervation. Our results indicate that SNs are additional cell types compromised in ALS and suggest that dysfunctional SOD1G93A muscles affect their sympathetic innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Mazzaro
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Veronica Vita
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Ronfini
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Irene Casola
- Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Klein
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Gabriella Dobrowolny
- Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianni Sorarù
- Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonio Musarò
- Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Scuola Superiore di Studi Avanzati Sapienza (SSAS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Mongillo
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, Padua, Italy
- CIR-MYO Myology Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Tania Zaglia
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- CIR-MYO Myology Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Split-elbow sign in the PRO-ACT and Southern Italy ALS cohorts: a potential marker of disease severity and lower motor neuron involvement? J Neurol 2023; 270:3204-3212. [PMID: 36917342 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11660-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Split phenomena in ALS refers to the preferential dysfunction of some groups of muscles over others. The split-elbow sign (SE) is characterized by the predominant weakness of the biceps compared to the triceps, but available results are conflicting. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the prevalence of the SE in two independent cohorts: the randomized controlled trial-based PRO-ACT cohort (n = 500) and a monocentric cohort of patients with ALS from Southern Italy (n = 144); to investigate the demographic and clinical variables associated with the SE sign. METHODS Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare biceps with triceps power in the same limb measured by hand-held dynamometry in the PRO-ACT cohort and Medical Research Council (MRC) in our cohort. Each limb was considered independently and not paired within the same individual. The arm where the triceps was stronger than the biceps was defined SE + , whereas the arm where the biceps was stronger than the triceps was considered SE-. A backward stepwise multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between clinical and demographic variables and SE. PENN Upper Motor Neuron and Devine scales were used to evaluate the different upper (UMN) and lower (LMN) motor neuron impairments between the SE + and SE- arms. RESULTS In both cohorts, the biceps were on average stronger than the triceps, and the SE sign was present in 41% of the PRO-ACT cohort and just 30% of the Southern Italy cohort. The multivariate logistic regression revealed that older age (OR: 1.45; p = 0.01), male gender (OR: 1.55; p = 0.002), spinal onset (OR: 1.59; p = 0.007), and higher disease severity (OR: 1.70; p = 0.001) were significant predictors of the SE sign in the PRO-ACT cohort. Conversely, in Southern Italy patients, only a lower ALSFRS-R score was a significant determinant of the SE (OR: 8.47; p = 0.008). Finally, SE + arms exhibited a significantly higher median Devine sub-score compared to SE- [1 vs 0, p = < 0.05], while arms SE- showed a significantly higher median PUMNS sub-score [2 vs 0; p = < 0.05)]. CONCLUSION In our study, most patients with ALS do not show SE. Patients with SE are more likely older, males, with spinal onset, a higher degree of disease severity, and predominant and wider LMN impairment.
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Hu N, Zhang L, Yang X, Fu H, Cui L, Liu M. Facial onset sensory and motor neuronopathy (FOSMN syndrome): Cases series and systematic review. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:1969-1978. [PMID: 36864244 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-06703-1] [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: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide new and comprehensive evidence for diagnosis and management of FOSMN syndrome. METHODS We reviewed our database to identify patients with FOSMN syndrome. Online database including PubMed, EMBASE, and OVID were also searched for relevant cases. RESULTS We identified a total of 71 cases, including 4 cases from our database and 67 ones from online searching. A predominance of male was observed [44 (62.0%)] with median onset age of 53 (range: 7-75) years old. The median (range) disease duration was 60 (3-552) months at the time of the visit. The initial symptoms could be sensory deficits in face (80.3%) or oral cavity (4.2%), bulbar paralysis (7.0%), dysosmia (1.4%), dysgeusia (4.2%), weakness or numbness of upper limbs (5.6%), or lower limbs (1.4%). Abnormal blink reflex was presented in 64 (90.1%) patients. CSF tests showed elevated protein level in 5 (7.0%) patients. Six (8.5%) patients had MND-related gene mutation. Five (7.0%) patients showed transient responsiveness to immunosuppressive therapy, then deteriorated relentlessly. Fourteen (19.7%) patients died, with an average survival time of around 4 years. Among them, five patients died of respiratory insufficiency. CONCLUSION The age of onset, progress of disease course, and prognosis of FOSMN syndrome could be varied significantly. The prerequisites of diagnosis were progressive and asymmetric lower motor neuron dysfunction, with sensory dysfunction which usually showed in face at the onset. Immunosuppressive therapy could be tried in some patients with suspected inflammatory clues. In general, FOSMN syndrome tended to be motor neuron disease with sensory involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Hu
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Xunzhe Yang
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Hanhui Fu
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Liying Cui
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Mingsheng Liu
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100730, Beijing, China.
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13
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Zoccolella S, Giugno A, Logroscino G. Split phenomena in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Current evidences, pathogenetic hypotheses and diagnostic implications. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1100040. [PMID: 36699516 PMCID: PMC9868395 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease and has emerged among the disorders with the largest increasing incidence in Western countries. Although the diagnosis is based on clinical grounds, electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies (NCS) play a crucial role to exclude other potential etiologies of lower motor neuron (LMN) dysfunction. Based on clinical grounds, a peculiar pattern of dissociated atrophy of the intrinsic hand and foot muscles, termed the "split-hand" (SH) and "split-leg" (SL) signs, has been described in a significant proportion of subjects with ALS, even at the early stages of the disease, when symptoms are focal. These signs are rare in neurological and non-neurological diseases other than ALS. In this review, we discussed current evidences concerning SH and SL signs, their pathogenetic hypotheses and neurophysiological findings. We also analyze whether SH and SL signs can be reliable markers in the differential diagnosis and in the prognosis of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Zoccolella
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy,Neurology Unit, Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Bari, San Paolo Hospital, Bari, Italy,*Correspondence: Stefano Zoccolella,
| | - Alessia Giugno
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy,Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Neurology, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, University of Bari Aldo Moro at Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, Tricase, Italy,Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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14
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Fan DS, Zhang YX, Ma JY, Liu XY, Zhang S, Yu Z. Promising application of a new ulnar nerve compound muscle action potential measurement montage in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a prospective cross-sectional study. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:908-912. [DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.353499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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15
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Motor unit number index (MUNIX) in the D50 disease progression model reflects disease accumulation independently of disease aggressiveness in ALS. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15997. [PMID: 36163485 PMCID: PMC9512899 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19911-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurophysiological technique motor unit number index (MUNIX) is increasingly used in clinical trials to measure loss of motor units. However, the heterogeneous disease course in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) obfuscates robust correlations between clinical status and electrophysiological assessments. To address this heterogeneity, MUNIX was applied in the D50 disease progression model by analyzing disease aggressiveness (D50) and accumulation (rD50 phase) in ALS separately. 237 ALS patients, 45 controls and 22 ALS-Mimics received MUNIX of abductor pollicis brevis (APB), abductor digiti minimi (ADM) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles. MUNIX significantly differed between controls and ALS patients and between ALS-Mimics and controls. Within the ALS cohort, significant differences between Phase I and II revealed in MUNIX, compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and motor unit size index (MUSIX) of APB as well as in MUNIX and CMAP of TA. For the ADM, significant differences occurred later in CMAP and MUNIX between Phase II and III/IV. In contrast, there was no significant association between disease aggressiveness and MUNIX. In application of the D50 disease progression model, MUNIX can demonstrate disease accumulation already in early Phase I and evaluate effects of therapeutic interventions in future therapeutic trials independent of individual disease aggressiveness.
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16
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Suzuki YI, Shibuya K, Misawa S, Suichi T, Tsuneyama A, Kojima Y, Nakamura K, Kano H, Prado M, Aotsuka Y, Otani R, Morooka M, Kuwabara S. Relationship between motor cortical and peripheral axonal hyperexcitability in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:jnnp-2021-328550. [PMID: 35995552 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2021-328550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown that patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have hyperexcitability in both the motor cortex and peripheral motor axons, but the relationship between central and peripheral excitability has not been fully disclosed. METHODS Threshold tracking transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and motor nerve excitability testing were prospectively performed in 53 patients with ALS and 50 healthy subjects, and their relations to compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude and revised ALS Functional Rating Scale were cross-sectionally analysed. RESULTS Compared with controls, patients with ALS showed both cortical and peripheral hyperexcitability; TMS showed reduced short-interval intracortical inhibition (interstimulus interval 1-7 ms) (p<0.001) and shortened silent period (p<0.05), and median nerve excitability testing revealed greater changes in depolarising threshold electrotonus (TEd) and greater superexcitability (p<0.0001, both), suggesting reduced axonal potassium currents. Significant correlations between cortical and peripheral excitability indices were not found. Greater changes in TEd (90-100 ms) (R=-0.33, p=0.03) and superexcitability (R=0.36, p=0.01) were associated with smaller amplitude of CMAP, whereas cortical excitability indices had no correlation with CMAP amplitude. More rapid motor functional decline was associated with only greater TEd (90-100 ms) (β=0.46, p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that in ALS, cortical excitability is continuously high regardless of the extent of the peripheral burden, but peripheral hyperexcitability is associated with the extent of the peripheral burden and disease evolution speed. Alterations of ion channel function may play an important role in ALS pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yo-Ichi Suzuki
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kazumoto Shibuya
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Sonoko Misawa
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tomoki Suichi
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Atsuko Tsuneyama
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuta Kojima
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Keigo Nakamura
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kano
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Mario Prado
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuya Aotsuka
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryo Otani
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Marie Morooka
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kuwabara
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
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17
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Shibuya K, Otani R, Suzuki YI, Kuwabara S, Kiernan MC. Neuronal Hyperexcitability and Free Radical Toxicity in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Established and Future Targets. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15040433. [PMID: 35455429 PMCID: PMC9025031 DOI: 10.3390/ph15040433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease with evidence of degeneration involving upper and lower motor neuron compartments of the nervous system. Presently, two drugs, riluzole and edaravone, have been established as being useful in slowing disease progression in ALS. Riluzole possesses anti-glutamatergic properties, while edaravone eliminates free radicals (FRs). Glutamate is the excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain and spinal cord and binds to several inotropic receptors. Excessive activation of these receptors generates FRs, inducing neurodegeneration via damage to intracellular organelles and upregulation of proinflammatory mediators. FRs bind to intracellular structures, leading to cellular impairment that contributes to neurodegeneration. As such, excitotoxicity and FR toxicities have been considered as key pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to the cascade of degeneration that envelopes neurons in ALS. Recent advanced technologies, including neurophysiological, imaging, pathological and biochemical techniques, have concurrently identified evidence of increased excitability in ALS. This review focuses on the relationship between FRs and excitotoxicity in motor neuronal degeneration in ALS and introduces concepts linked to increased excitability across both compartments of the human nervous system. Within this cellular framework, future strategies to promote therapeutic development in ALS, from the perspective of neuronal excitability and function, will be critically appraised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumoto Shibuya
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8677, Japan; (K.S.); (R.O.); (Y.-i.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Ryo Otani
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8677, Japan; (K.S.); (R.O.); (Y.-i.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Yo-ichi Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8677, Japan; (K.S.); (R.O.); (Y.-i.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Satoshi Kuwabara
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8677, Japan; (K.S.); (R.O.); (Y.-i.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Matthew C. Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, Department of Neurology, University of Sydney, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney 2050, Australia
- Correspondence:
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18
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Bromberg MB. What Is in the Literature. J Clin Neuromuscul Dis 2022; 23:124-132. [PMID: 35188908 DOI: 10.1097/cnd.0000000000000399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This issue of What Is in the Literature focuses on articles on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis over the past year. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis remains a challenging disorder with progression to death. Within the past year, a phase 2 trial of a drug combination showed slowing in the rate of progression. While awaiting a phase 3 trial or approval by the Food and Drug Administration, selected articles that aid the diagnosis, contribute to care, or add to general knowledge about the disease are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B Bromberg
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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Pechirra G, Swash M, de Carvalho M. The senile hand: age effects on intrinsic hand muscle CMAP amplitudes influence split-hand index calculations. Muscle Nerve 2022; 65:463-467. [PMID: 34993957 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Age can affect hand muscles non-uniformly. We investigated the influence of age on the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude of the hand muscles and the derived split-hand index (SHI). METHODS We studied 244 subjects investigated for myasthenia gravis but without neuromuscular disorders. Abductor pollicis brevis (APB), first dorsal interosseous (FDI), and abductor digiti minimi (ADM) CMAPs were obtained by supramaximal stimulation at the wrist, recording with surface electrodes while checking the best recording site. We applied Tukey's HSD and Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance for comparing age groups defined by median and inter-quantile ranges (IQR). Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and linear regression were used for testing age-dependence of measurements. RESULTS Median age was 61.5 years (1st IQR 44.5, 3rd IQR 72.0, range 18-89). Age and neurophysiological measurements were similar between genders. APBCMAP , FDICMAP , ADMCMAP and SHI were correlated with age (p < 0.001). Median and cut-off values were significantly different between age groups. APBCMAP , FDICMAP and ADMCMAP decreased by 0.8/0.7/0.3 mV/year, respectively, and SHI decreased 0.15/year. DISCUSSION The CMAP amplitudes of hand muscles and derived SHI were strongly age-dependent, although this effect was less in ADM. This represents a physiological phenomenon. Future studies using the SHI should consider age effects. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonçalo Pechirra
- Faculdade de Medicina-Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Michael Swash
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa-Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Faculdade de Medicina-Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa-Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
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Pavey N, Higashihara M, van den Bos MA, Menon P, Vucic S. The split-elbow index: A biomarker of the split elbow sign in ALS. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2021; 7:16-20. [PMID: 35024511 PMCID: PMC8733259 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The split elbow sign is a clinical feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), characterised by preferential weakness of biceps brachii muscle compared to triceps. A novel neurophysiological index, termed the split elbow index (SEI), was developed to quantify the split-elbow sign, and assess its utility in ALS. METHODS Clinical and neurophysiological assessment was prospectively undertaken on 34 ALS patients and 32 ALS mimics. Compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude was recorded from biceps brachii and triceps muscles from which the SEI was calculated using the following formula: SEI = CMAPamplitudeBICEPSBRACHII CMAPamplitudeTRICEPSBRACHII . RESULTS The split elbow sign was significantly more common in ALS patients when compared to ALS mimic patients (P < 0.05). The SEI was significantly reduced in ALS patients when compared to ALS mimics (P < 0.01). This reduction was evident in spinal and bulbar onset ALS. A SEI cut-off value of ≤0.62 exhibited a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 61%. CONCLUSIONS The split elbow sign is significantly more common in ALS patients, and was supported by a reduction in the SEI. SIGNIFICANCE The SEI may be utilised as a surrogate biomarker of the split elbow sign in future ALS studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Pavey
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mana Higashihara
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mehdi A.J. van den Bos
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Parvathi Menon
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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21
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Pathological neural networks and artificial neural networks in ALS: diagnostic classification based on pathognomonic neuroimaging features. J Neurol 2021; 269:2440-2452. [PMID: 34585269 PMCID: PMC9021106 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10801-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The description of group-level, genotype- and phenotype-associated imaging traits is academically important, but the practical demands of clinical neurology centre on the accurate classification of individual patients into clinically relevant diagnostic, prognostic and phenotypic categories. Similarly, pharmaceutical trials require the precision stratification of participants based on quantitative measures. A single-centre study was conducted with a uniform imaging protocol to test the accuracy of an artificial neural network classification scheme on a cohort of 378 participants composed of patients with ALS, healthy subjects and disease controls. A comprehensive panel of cerebral volumetric measures, cortical indices and white matter integrity values were systematically retrieved from each participant and fed into a multilayer perceptron model. Data were partitioned into training and testing and receiver-operating characteristic curves were generated for the three study-groups. Area under the curve values were 0.930 for patients with ALS, 0.958 for disease controls, and 0.931 for healthy controls relying on all input imaging variables. The ranking of variables by classification importance revealed that white matter metrics were far more relevant than grey matter indices to classify single subjects. The model was further tested in a subset of patients scanned within 6 weeks of their diagnosis and an AUC of 0.915 was achieved. Our study indicates that individual subjects may be accurately categorised into diagnostic groups in an observer-independent classification framework based on multiparametric, spatially registered radiology data. The development and validation of viable computational models to interpret single imaging datasets are urgently required for a variety of clinical and clinical trial applications.
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