Contents

SynopsisCodesLook ForDiagnostic PearlsDifferential Diagnosis & PitfallsBest TestsManagement PearlsTherapyReferences
Primary lateral sclerosis
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Primary lateral sclerosis

Contributors: Andrea Wasilewski MD, Jamie Adams MD, Richard L. Barbano MD, PhD
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is a sporadic progressive neuromuscular disease caused by upper motor neuron damage. Average age of onset is 40-60 years, and the condition is more common in men than in women. Patients typically present with gradual lower extremity spasticity, hyperreflexia, and weakness, which may be asymmetric at onset. Some may develop gait and balance problems and eventually become wheelchair dependent. Over time, the trunk, upper extremities, and bulbar muscles are involved, leading to arm and hand weakness, dysarthria, and dysphagia. Progression is variable, although there is gradual accumulation of disability. Patients can survive for 20 or more years after symptom onset, and life expectancy may not be shortened.

Codes

ICD10CM:
G12.29 – Other motor neuron disease

SNOMEDCT:
81211007 – Primary lateral sclerosis

Look For

Subscription Required

Diagnostic Pearls

Subscription Required

Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

To perform a comparison, select diagnoses from the classic differential

Subscription Required

Best Tests

Subscription Required

Management Pearls

Subscription Required

Therapy

Subscription Required

References

Subscription Required

Last Reviewed:02/07/2019
Last Updated:01/20/2022
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Primary lateral sclerosis
Print  
A medical illustration showing key findings of Primary lateral sclerosis : Dysarthria, Gait disturbance, Muscle weakness, Spasticity, Paraparesis
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.