[A lung specialist in ALS care: towards less pessimism].
Specialized and multidisciplinary care is needed for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Respiratory failure secondary to respiratory muscle dysfunction, ineffective cough, weight loss and progressive loss of autonomy should always be sought and explored. Very few tests are needed to assess a patient with ALS: spirometry, blood gases, nocturnal oximetry, cough peak-flow, and follow-up of body weight. Patients should be informed clearly as to the nature and evolution of ALS, and as to the potential benefits and disadvantages associated with each treatment modality in order to be involved in therapeutic decisions. This evidence-based review focuses on respiratory care of patients with ALS.
Adler
Dan
D
Service de pneumologie, HUG, 1211 Genève 14. dan.adler@hcuge.ch
Contal
Olivier
O
Janssens
Jean-Paul
JP
D000690:Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D001784:Blood Gas Analysis; D003226:Congresses as Topic; D003371:Cough / Q000209:etiology; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D010092:Oximetry; D011175:Positive-Pressure Respiration / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011379:Prognosis; D012123:Pulmonary Ventilation; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D012138:Respiratory Therapy / Q000379:methods; D012140:Respiratory Tract Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D013147:Spirometry; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss