Detection of fasciculations in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: The optimal ultrasound scan time. Issue 6 (10th April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Noto, Yu‐ichi; Shibuya, Kazumoto; Shahrizaila, Nortina; Huynh, William; Matamala, José M.; Dharmadasa, Thanuja; Kiernan, Matthew C.
• Is Part Of: Muscle & nerve. Volume 56:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 1068
• Page End: 1071
• Publication Date: 2017-04-10
• Subjects: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis -- diagnosis -- fasciculation -- muscle -- time -- ultrasound; Neuromuscular diseases -- Periodicals; Muscles -- Periodicals; Nerves -- Periodicals; 616.74
• DOI: 10.1002/mus.25607
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0148-639X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: This study seeks to elucidate the optimal scan time to detect fasciculations by using ultrasound in the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: The intervals between fasciculations were recorded from tongue, abdominal, and limb muscles in ALS patients, incorporating assessment of the cumulative probability of 2 fasciculations occurring. Results: From prospective studies of 228 muscles from 19 ALS patients, fasciculations were detectable in 68% of patients. The longest interfasciculation interval recorded was 81.4 s in the hand muscle. The cumulative probability of 2 fasciculations occurring was calculated as ≥0.9 in all muscles during a period of 60 s. Discussion: A definition of 2 or more fasciculations occurring during a scan time of 60 s reliably allowed detection of fasciculations in ALS. Muscle Nerve, 2017