Spinal Fluid Diagnostic for ALS
August 15, 2017 | Terry Sharrer
Researchers in Belgium and Germany have discovered specific biomarkers in lumbar fluid, known as phosphorylated neurofilament heavy and neurofilament light chain, which are highly indicative of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These filaments derive from dying motor neurons. In most instances, ALS is diagnosed by increasing physical limitations, but that can take over a year. While these biomarkers are a diagnostic, they are correlated with the extent of motor neuron degeneration, and may be prognostic as well. MORE
Image Credit: Wikimedia.commons