Anterior horn disease
Anterior Horn Disease
Anterior horn disease (pronunciation: an-teer-ior horn di-zeez) is a medical condition that affects the anterior horn cells of the spinal cord. These cells are responsible for transmitting signals to the muscles, and their damage can lead to muscle weakness and atrophy.
Etymology
The term "anterior horn disease" is derived from the location of the affected cells in the anterior (front) part of the spinal cord's grey matter, which is shaped like a horn. The word "disease" comes from the Old French desaise, meaning lack of ease.
Symptoms
The symptoms of anterior horn disease can vary depending on the specific type of disease and the extent of the damage to the anterior horn cells. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle atrophy
- Fasciculations (muscle twitching)
- Hyperreflexia (overactive reflexes)
Causes
Anterior horn disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of anterior horn disease typically involves a combination of neurological examination, electromyography (EMG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In some cases, a lumbar puncture may also be performed to analyze the cerebrospinal fluid.
Treatment
Treatment for anterior horn disease is primarily focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medications to manage pain and other symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anterior horn disease
- Wikipedia's article - Anterior horn disease
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