A Case of Motor Neuron Disease Presenting as Dyspnea in the Emergency Department.
10.4082/kjfm.2012.33.2.110
- Author:
Hyun Soo PARK
1
Author Information
1. Department of Emergency Medicine, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea. phs0331@gmail.com
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Motor Neuron Disease;
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis;
Dyspnea
- MeSH:
Aged;
Aging;
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis;
Atrophy;
Deglutition Disorders;
Dysarthria;
Dyspnea;
Emergencies;
Fasciculation;
Humans;
Male;
Motor Neuron Disease;
Motor Neurons;
Muscle Spasticity;
Muscle Weakness;
Muscles;
Nervous System Diseases;
Neurologic Examination;
Respiratory Insufficiency
- From:Korean Journal of Family Medicine
2012;33(2):110-113
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Motor neuron disease encompasses a group of progressive neurologic disorders that destroy cells responsible for the control of essential muscles. The disorders are characterized by progressive weakness, muscle atrophy and fasciculation, spasticity, dysarthria, dysphagia, and respiratory compromise. A 66-year-old male presented to the emergency department with progressive dyspnea and, ultimately, respiratory failure. In spite of extensive cardiopulmonary evaluation, a cause could not be identified except aging. After complete history taking, physical and neurologic examination, motor neuron disease was suspected at last. Thus, elderly patients with dyspnea in the emergency department could have hidden diseases beyond the normal aging process.
