We all have heard of ALS and FTD as two separate illnesses. Many people are diagnosed with these conditions. However, there are also many people walking around with symptoms of not one, but both of these illnesses. Did you know that ALS and FTD could be related in some ways? Let’s learn more about these two neurodegenerative diseases, how these conditions are related, and how they could be diagnosed together.
What is ALS?
Genetic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS, is a neurodegenerative disease that attacks the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control our movement. As these nerve cells become damaged and die, they stop sending messages to the muscles throughout your body. This causes your muscles to twitch, weaken, and deteriorate. Motor symptoms are typically associated with ALS, such as problems walking, using one’s hands, swallowing, standing, and even speaking. These symptoms usually develop later on in the illness. In the vast majority of cases, the cause of ALS has become sporadic. This means that the cause of the condition is still unclear, and there is no risk factor or family history.
What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, refers to a group of disorders that cause progressive damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain associated with behavior, personality, and language. I’ve written about this illness various times to help raise awareness of this condition. Loss of the functioning of the frontal and temporal lobes could lead to impulsive behavior and speech difficulties. Some of the noted symptoms include lack of awareness of thinking or behavioral problems, decline in personal hygiene, loss of empathy and other interpersonal skills, and lack of judgment and inhibition. Unlike ALS, FTD is a condition that affects your cognitive function and behavior.
How are ALS and Frontotemporal Dementia Related?
While some people have been diagnosed with one of these two diseases, there have also been many people diagnosed with both of them. This is known as the ALS-FTD spectrum disorder. The fact that the two neurodegenerative diseases both share some genetic characteristics has led to some growing evidence of a strong link between the two conditions. These conditions also share some common causes. In 2011, researchers began seeing a gene mutation called C9orf72 as a possible cause of both ALS and FTD. They are still continuing to learn more about the genetics, causes, risk factors, and symptoms of both ALS and FTD. However, there is some research that shows the accumulation of abnormal proteins such as TDP-43 and FUS could play a role in the development of both diseases.
How They Could Be Diagnosed Together?
So how could these two diseases be diagnosed together? Currently, there is no definitive diagnostic test for ALS or FTD. Diagnosing both conditions can be a complex and lengthy process. Clinicians utilize neurological examinations, a patient’s medical history, and various tests to diagnose whether the patient has one or both of the conditions. There are also medical assessments that professionals use to accurately characterize the extent and severity of cognitive, behavioral, and motor symptoms, as well as develop a personalized care plan for the patient. These assessments typically involve a team of multidisciplinary healthcare professionals, including neurologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, among others.
Treatment and Management of ALS and FTD
Because there is no cure for either disease, there are treatment options available to manage the symptoms. There are medications for FTD to alleviate mood and behavioral issues, as well as cognitive rehabilitation and psychotherapy to manage the symptoms. ALS usually comes with treatments such as riluzole, which is a medication that has been said to be effective in slowing down the progression of ALS. Many patients with ALS also go through physical and occupational therapy to help maintain their mobility and everyday function. Some doctors may also prescribe walkers, braces, and communication aids for patients with ALS to help manage their walking and communication skills.
While there are many people diagnosed with one of these diseases, there are also many becoming diagnosed with both ALS and FTD. These conditions are neurodegenerative illnesses and possess some shared genetic characteristics. There is still ongoing research and medical advancements being made in how to better treat both of these conditions. But until that happens, if you have a loved one who is diagnosed with ALS, FTD, or both, consider doing the best you can to support and take care of them as best as you can. If you or someone you know has been experiencing signs of any of these conditions, please be sure to consult a doctor for early, effective detection. Also, don’t hesitate to continue to spread awareness about both ALS and FTD.
Did you know that ALS and FTD could be related? Do you have a loved one coping with one or both conditions? If so, feel free to share your story in the comments below. As always, be sure to like or share this post with the next person you know with a family member coping with FTD or ALS.
