[Review of nutritional and respiratory support in ALS]

Rev Neurol (Paris). 2004 Feb;160(2):243-50. doi: 10.1016/s0035-3787(04)70898-x.
[Article in French]

Abstract

During the evolution of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), quality of life and survival of patients are related to respiratory and nutritional status. After diagnosis, a multidisciplinary care has to be promptly organized and coordinated by the referring neurologist. The nutritional and respiratory support imply that neurologists know their specific means of evaluation with their sensitivity and sensibility and be able to recognize clinical risk situations. The informations of patients on assisted-ventilation and nutritional support by using gastrostomy may be done early, precisely and trustfully. Well informed patient's choices must be respected. Nutritional and respiratory supports may be based on recommendations established by the American Academy of Neurology. This review will present and discuss their main aspects in patients with ALS.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / complications
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / therapy*
  • Gastrostomy
  • Humans
  • Malnutrition / etiology
  • Malnutrition / prevention & control
  • Nutritional Support*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Respiration Disorders / diagnosis
  • Respiration Disorders / etiology
  • Respiration Disorders / prevention & control
  • Respiration Disorders / therapy
  • Respiration, Artificial
  • Respiratory Therapy*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / etiology
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / physiopathology