Hello,
Thank you for posting your query at DoctorSpring.com
I have noted your symptoms and EMG results.
In my opinion, you do not have ALS. In order to diagnose ALS, there should be a combination of lower and upper motor neuron abnormalities. Lower motor neuron abnormalities include wasting (thinning of muscles), weakness and fasciculations. Upper motor neuron signs include spasticity (increased muscle tone) and exaggerated deep tendon reflexes. In your case, wasting and upper motor neuron signs are absent.
Normal EMG also is a point against a diagnosis of ALS.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist
Patient replied :
Dear Dr,
So is my EMG considered normal then with fasciculation shown on recent one and ADM MUPs on the older one. Does the EMG have to show more things like fibs and pos sharp waves etc? Can this be early signs? As i have been twitching for 5 months would i have had other symptoms by now if ALS and would more signs have shown up on EMG?
Thank you for getting back.
EMG would show fasciculations, fibrillations and positive sharp waves in two or more regions (out of bulbar, cervical and lumbosacral) for us to diagnose ALS. Yes, in five months, EMG would pick up ALS.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist
Patient replied :
Dr, Over recent days I have felt that it is strange feeling on right leg that seems to be awkward when walking. It feels as if it is stalling and as if i might trip. Please note that i have not actually tripped to date. What would i need to look out for in this area of the body that could relate to MND. Would it be awkward walking feeling or would it be specific like foot drop that would be nticed etc? Also, the calves are aching now as well in semi cramp like feeling.
Thank you for getting back.
I have noted your new symptoms. These could due to muscle cramps or spasms.
For signs of MND in legs, you could look for muscle wasting (thinning of muscles) and foot drop.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist
Patient replied :
So without foot drop or wasting then its not related to mnd?
Thank you for getting back.
Yes, absence of muscle wasting or foot drop would be against a diagnosis of MND. As diagnosis of MND requires presence of both upper motor (increased muscle tone and exaggerated deep tendon reflexes) and lower motor neuron (wasting and fasciculations) abnormalities.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist