Muscle & nerve
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The aim of this study was to determine normal reference values for cross-sectional area (CSA) and the correlation between demographic factors and CSA in the cervical roots and brachial plexus trunks using ultrasonography. ⋯ These reference values may be helpful in investigating pathologies involving the cervical area.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of analysis approaches for phase III clinical trials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
In this study we explore several methods for incorporating survival information in the analysis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS) scores. ⋯ The shared parameter model and rank-based approach can offer improvements in power over traditional approaches.
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In this study we aimed to demonstrate the distinctive features of dysphagia in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). ⋯ Our findings reveal the differences in the distinctive features of dysphagia in DM1 and DMD. Adjustments in the diet of DMD patients in accordance with swallowing ability could be useful.
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Respiratory complications are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Treatment of respiratory insufficiency with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) improves ALS patients' quality of life and survival. ⋯ Despite these recommendations respiratory therapies remain underused. In this review we provide a practical guide for the clinician to prescribe and manage respiratory therapies for the patient with ALS.
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We describe 2 patients who received botulinum toxin A (BoNT) for poststroke spasticity and developed contralateral limb weakness. ⋯ Isolated weakness of the contralateral limb after BoNT injection for poststroke spasticity suggests diffusion of toxin through tissue planes from proximal upper extremity muscles, across the midline, to contralateral muscles. High doses of botulinum toxin, high dilution volumes, and injection of proximal upper extremity muscles appear to be risk factors for this adverse effect.