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Laboratory evaluation of suspected motor neuron disease: A survey of physicians
Author(s) -
Sanderson Alan B.,
Novak John C.,
Nash Steven M.,
Kolb Stephen J.,
Kissel John T.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
muscle and nerve
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.025
H-Index - 145
eISSN - 1097-4598
pISSN - 0148-639X
DOI - 10.1002/mus.24639
Subject(s) - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis , medicine , spinal muscular atrophy , neurology , population , motor neuron , neuromuscular disease , disease , physical therapy , pathology , pediatrics , psychiatry , environmental health
The clinical diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) relies on exclusion of mimic syndromes, but there are no specific guidelines regarding the extent of laboratory testing required. Methods A survey was sent to 274 physicians listed in the Neuromuscular Section of the American Academy of Neurology. The survey asked how often they order 21 different laboratory tests in patients suspected of having ALS. Results Ninety‐nine responses were received (36% response rate). Greater than 75% ordered serum creatine kinase, chemistry panel, and thyroid functions often or always. Fewer than 25% tested for serum complement, hexosaminidase A, spinal muscular atrophy, Kennedy disease, heavy metals, or human T‐cell lymphotrophic virus often or always. Twelve other tests had intermediate responses. Conclusions There is a lack of consensus among respondents regarding the laboratory evaluation of suspected ALS. Prospective studies are needed to define the diagnostic yield and cost‐effectiveness of laboratory testing in this population. Muscle Nerve 52 : 83–87, 2015