56 - Motor neurone disease

Summary

Motor neurone disease

See also Map 48 Multiple sclerosis.

There is little geographical patterning to the rates of motor neurone disease (MND).

MND is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks the upper and lower motor neurones in the brain and spinal cord causing muscle wastage. This leads to increasing loss of mobility in the limbs, and difficulties with speech, swallowing and breathing.

The symptoms of MND usually first appear in the arms and legs and tend to be mild, such as difficulty holding objects. As the disease progresses there is weakness and wasting in the muscles including those of the face and throat, which can lead to problems with speech and difficulty chewing and swallowing.

In the advanced stages of the disease, a patient may become almost totally immobile. The rate of progression of the disease varies enormously from patient to patient. On average the disease takes three to four years to run its course.

MND usually has no impact at all on intellect or memory nor does it affect the five senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and sensation. It is not known what causes MND and there is currently no known cure.

Actor David Niven and Diane Pretty, who triggered a debate on euthanasia in the UK, died from this cause.