Multifocal motor neuropathy
Multifocal motor neuropathy | |
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Other names | Multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block |
Specialty | Neurology |
Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is a progressively worsening condition where muscles in the extremities gradually weaken. The disorder, a pure
Unlike ALS, which affects both upper and lower motor neuron pathways, MMN involves only the lower motor neuron pathway, specifically, the peripheral nerves emanating from the lower motor neurons. Definitive diagnosis is often difficult, and many MMN patients labor for months or years under an ALS diagnosis before finally getting a determination of MMN.
MMN usually involves very little pain; however, muscle cramps, spasms and twitches can cause pain for some people. MMN is not fatal, and does not diminish life expectancy. Many patients, once undergoing treatment, only experience mild symptoms over prolonged periods, though the condition remains slowly progressive. MMN can however, lead to significant disability, with loss of function in hands affecting ability to work and perform everyday tasks, and "foot drop" leading to inability to stand and walk; some patients end up using aids like canes, splints and walkers.
Symptoms
Usually beginning in one or both hands, MMN is characterized by weakness, muscle atrophy, cramping, and often profuse
Sensory nerves are usually unaffected.[citation needed]
Wrist drop and foot drop (leading to trips and falls) are common symptoms. Other effects can include gradual loss of finger extension, leading to a clawlike appearance. Cold & hot temperatures exacerbate MMN symptoms to such an extent, unlike other neuropathies, that this temperature response is being investigated as a diagnostic tool.[2]
Cause
MMN is thought to be caused by alterations in the immune system, such that certain proteins (antibodies) that would normally protect one from viruses and bacteria begin to attack constituents of peripheral nerves. Antibodies may be directed against "GM-1", a ganglioside found at the
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of MMN depends on demonstrating that a patient has a purely motor disorder affecting individual nerves, that there are no upper motor neuron (UMN) signs, that there are no sensory deficits, and that there is evidence of conduction block. These criteria are designed to differentiate the disorder from ALS (purely motor but with UMN signs), the Lewis-Sumner Syndrome variant of Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) (similar to MMN but usually with significant sensory loss), and "vasculitis" (a type of multiple mononeuropathy syndrome caused by inflammatory damage to the blood vessels in nerves that also causes sensory and motor symptoms). [citation needed]
A neurologist is usually needed to determine the diagnosis, which is based on the history and physical examination along with the electrodiagnostic study, which includes
Treatment
Multifocal motor neuropathy is normally treated by receiving
Ongoing specialist community support, information, advice, and guidance is available from a range of Charities, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), and Patient Advisory Groups around the world. In the United Kingdom this is provided by GAIN (Guillain–Barré and Associated Inflammatory Neuropathies)[5], in the USA it is provided by GBS/CIDP Foundation International[6], and in The European Union by a range of organisations under the umbrella of EPODIN (European Patient Organization for Disimmune & Inflammatory Neuropathies)[7]
References
External links
- Overview of MMN at National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
- Information on MMN from UK Charity GAIN (Guillain–Barré and Associated Inflammatory Neuropathies)
- Information on MMN from NGO GBS/CIDP Foundation International
- Information on MMN from NGO EPODIN (European Patient Organization for Disimmune & Inflammatory Neuropathies)