HomeAnswersNeurologymotor neuron diseaseMy father in law is diagnosed with motor neuron disease. Please suggest treatment options?

What is Motor Neuron Disease (MND)?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At October 13, 2023
Reviewed AtOctober 13, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My father-in-law has been diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND). He is 55 years old, and I have attached the reports (attachments removed to protect the patient identity). I would appreciate your help in understanding the nature of the disease, prognosis, and treatment plan. Additionally, I am interested in exploring alternative treatments like Ayurveda. Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your query and I am really sorry for what your family is going through. After looking at the hospital records, it seems they have done a lot of tests, and the final diagnosis is likely correct. It looks like your father-in-law has a type of disease called "progressive muscular atrophy," which is a kind of motor neuron disease (MND). Before I answer your question, it is important to check for certain antibodies related to another disease that might have similar symptoms to what your father-in-law is experiencing. These tests are called Anti Acetylcholine Antibody and anti-MuSK antibody test, and they' help in confirming the diagnosis. Now, let me respond to your questions:

Motor neuron diseases like MND can have a tough impact on the patient's life. The weakness and atrophy (muscle wasting) can spread to the limbs and really limit the person's abilities. In your father-in-law's case, since the disease began in his neck and throat, the outlook is even worse. Difficulty swallowing can lead to serious problems like food getting into the lungs, causing pneumonia, which is life-threatening. The usual treatment plan involves using a medication called Riluzole (Calcium hydrogen phosphate), taken every 12 hours, with or without another drug called Edaravone (antioxidant medication). Unfortunately, Ayurveda cannot treat this condition. I hope this helps you understand the situation better. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Take care of yourself and your family.

Kind regards.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thanks for the earlier response. Is Ayurveda treatment a good option? Also what is rate of progress in terms of years? Kindly answer.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As a physician, my primary recommendation is to provide evidence-based treatment, which means using treatments supported by scientific research as beneficial. Regarding Ayurveda, there is no solid scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness as a beneficial treatment for MND. Therefore, my answer remains no. As mentioned earlier, it is crucial to check the specific antibodies, especially the musk antibody, to ensure that all other potential diagnoses have been ruled out. This is essential as the treatment and prognosis can vary significantly based on the correct diagnosis. Please follow the instructions provided earlier and make sure to get the necessary tests done for a more accurate understanding of the condition. If you have any more questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out. Wishing you and your family the best during this challenging time.Hope this helps.

Kind regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Seyedaidin Sajedi
Dr. Seyedaidin Sajedi

Neurology

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