Journal of neurology
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The poor prognosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) makes palliative care a challenge for the neurologist. Most disabilities associated with progressive disease can be ameliorated by symptomatic treatment. ⋯ Respiratory insufficiency can be treated by non-invasive ventilation at home, provided the familial environment is supportive. Adequate assistance and palliative treatment in the terminal phase is of paramount importance.
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Journal of neurology · Oct 1997
Review Case ReportsPalliative therapy in the terminal stage of neurological disease.
As recently pointed out by the American Academy of Neurology, providing adequate palliative care to dying patients is the duty of every neurologist. Because of a lack of relevant articles in the neurological literature, we have compiled current treatment recommendations for the most important symptoms arising in the endstage of neurological diseases. ⋯ A discussion of difficult decisions is included, e.g., the appropriate extent of fluid substitution or the ethical implications of sedation in the terminal phase. It is hoped that this compilation may provide a basis for future research in palliative therapy in neurology.