We visited the neurologist today (follow up from the abnormal EMG).
Neurologist believes this is *NOT* ALS. (omg, I am so relieved!). He thinks that the gait/ balance issues are a result of damage to her spine b/c of compression & scar tissue. He said if there was damage in the cervical spine region there is likely damage in her lumbar region (she will get an MRI of neck & lumbar on Wed). He also believes her dementia/ executive dysfunction issues are a result of micro-vessel damage (due to mini-stroke/ hypertension & long standing moderate alcoholism). He said the EMG was abnormal mostly in her right arm (where she experienced numbness ect that diagnosed the cervical spinal issues) and some in her legs (but not her mid back which is what made him rule out ALS). Given the history of my brother with ALS and my aunt with Pick's disease... I am having a hard time believing 100%. However, I am so relieved! Please please let this diagnosis stick! Please.
Neurologist believes this is *NOT* ALS. (omg, I am so relieved!). He thinks that the gait/ balance issues are a result of damage to her spine b/c of compression & scar tissue. He said if there was damage in the cervical spine region there is likely damage in her lumbar region (she will get an MRI of neck & lumbar on Wed). He also believes her dementia/ executive dysfunction issues are a result of micro-vessel damage (due to mini-stroke/ hypertension & long standing moderate alcoholism). He said the EMG was abnormal mostly in her right arm (where she experienced numbness ect that diagnosed the cervical spinal issues) and some in her legs (but not her mid back which is what made him rule out ALS). Given the history of my brother with ALS and my aunt with Pick's disease... I am having a hard time believing 100%. However, I am so relieved! Please please let this diagnosis stick! Please.