PATIENT INFORMATION
Motor neurone disease
A degenerative condition affecting the motor neurones — the nerves in the brain and spinal cord that control movement.
What is motor neurone disease?
Motor neurone disease (MND) affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord that control movement (motor neurones). The disease causes progressive degeneration of the motor neurones, and over time the muscles they control become weaker, which may affect daily activities such as walking, speaking, swallowing or breathing.
MND affects everyone differently. Some people notice weakness in a limb first; others notice changes in speech or swallowing. The condition usually progresses over time, but the speed and pattern vary from person to person. MND does not usually affect the senses such as sight, hearing or touch, though some people experience changes in thinking or behaviour. MND is categorised into different subtypes, and the consultation and planned investigations form part of this diagnostic work-up.
How do NCS and EMG fit into the assessment?
When investigating possible MND, one of the key tests is a combination of nerve conduction studies and electromyography. NCS shows whether the nerves that carry messages to muscles are working normally; EMG records the electrical patterns within the muscles themselves and can reveal whether weakness is due to a problem with the nerves supplying them. The tests are generally safe and well tolerated — please inform the clinic if you take blood-thinning medication. Read more about NCS/EMG.
How is the diagnosis made?
MND is ultimately a clinical diagnosis: no single test can confirm it. The diagnosis is made by a consultant neurologist based on a thorough history and neurological examination, supported by investigations such as NCS/EMG, blood tests, and brain and spine imaging, which also serve to exclude conditions that can mimic MND. The diagnosis is made against established criteria such as the Awaji or Gold Coast criteria.
NCS/EMG is particularly important because it can show patterns of nerve and muscle involvement typical of MND, increasing diagnostic confidence when applied to these criteria, and can rule out other conditions — such as nerve entrapments or peripheral neuropathies — that may cause similar symptoms.
Support and further information
A possible diagnosis of MND is naturally worrying. Further information and support for patients and families are available from the MND Association (mndassociation.org).
Dr Foo works within a dedicated NHS MND service, and patients seen privately can be directed towards NHS specialist care and research pathways where appropriate.