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Detection of fasciculations in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: The optimal ultrasound scan time
Author(s) -
Noto Yuichi,
Shibuya Kazumoto,
Shahrizaila Nortina,
Huynh William,
Matamala José M.,
Dharmadasa Thanuja,
Kiernan Matthew C.
Publication year - 2017
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.25607
Subject(s) - fasciculation , amyotrophic lateral sclerosis , medicine , anatomy , disease
This study seeks to elucidate the optimal scan time to detect fasciculations by using ultrasound in the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods The intervals between fasciculations were recorded from tongue, abdominal, and limb muscles in ALS patients, incorporating assessment of the cumulative probability of 2 fasciculations occurring. Results From prospective studies of 228 muscles from 19 ALS patients, fasciculations were detectable in 68% of patients. The longest interfasciculation interval recorded was 81.4 s in the hand muscle. The cumulative probability of 2 fasciculations occurring was calculated as ≥0.9 in all muscles during a period of 60 s. Discussion A definition of 2 or more fasciculations occurring during a scan time of 60 s reliably allowed detection of fasciculations in ALS. Muscle Nerve , 2017