Anterior Horn Disease

Definition

Definition of Anterior Horn Disease
Anterior horn disease is a condition that affects the anterior horn cells, which are responsible for voluntary muscle activities, such as breathing, walking, swallowing and speaking. Anterior horn disease is characterized by the death of more neurons, which result in a prolonged and progressive motor weakness. Some patients with anterior horn disease are affected permanently.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Anterior Horn Disease
Anterior horn disease presents symptoms associated with the lower and upper motor neurone degeneration, such as brisk reflexes, spasticity, Babinski sign (for lower motor neurone), weakness and muscle atrophy (for upper motor neurone). Note that all muscle groups in the human body require both lower and upper motor neurones in order to function. These signs could occur in various muscle groups, including the torso, legs, arms and the bulbar region. Symptoms of Anterior horn disease usually appear in ages of 50 to 70. Symptoms include muscle wasting, progressive weakness, muscle fasciculations, arms and legs spasticity, stiffness and overactive reflexes of tendons. Other patients experience serious symptoms such as slurred speech, dragging foot or unilateral muscle wasting of the hands.

Causes

Causes of Anterior Horn Disease
Anterior horn disease has no known cause. However, genetic factors are important in determining a person's vulnerability to this disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Anterior Horn Disease
There are no specific tests to diagnose anterior horn cell disease. NINDS notes that the symptoms associated with this disease are similar to other diseases. However, a neurological exam assessing motor and sensory skills, nerve functions, hearing and speech, vision, coordination and balance, mental status, and mood changes can lead doctors to a diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment of Anterior Horn Disease
There is no cure for Anterior horn disease. The only medicine used for Anterior horn disease patients is “riluzole”.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Anterior Horn Disease
Consult with your doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of Anterior Horn Disease
Consult with your doctor.