22/06/2026 16:40 - Salud
Médico neurologo mostrando imágenes de cerebro en consulta médica moderna con luz esperanzadora, ambiente profesional
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), known in Argentina as "Esclerosis Lateral Amiotrófica," is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons that control voluntary movements. While there is currently no cure, early detection allows for better treatment planning, interventions, and support strategies from the initial stages.
| Indicator | Data |
|---|---|
| Annual new cases | 900 to 1,000 |
| Total diagnosed patients | 3,000 to 3,300 |
| Prevalence rate | 1-3 per 100,000 inhabitants |
| Most common age range | Over 40 years (peak 50-70) |
| Familial form | 10% of cases |
| Sporadic form | 90% of cases |
Specialists warn that initial symptoms tend to be subtle and vary between patients:
Amyotrophic: From Greek "without muscle nutrition," referring to muscle atrophy.
Lateral: Areas of the spinal cord where nerve cells controlling movement are located.
Sclerosis: Hardening or scarring of nerve pathways as they degenerate.
One of the least known aspects of ALS is that, despite progressive physical disability, several functions remain preserved:
Currently approved treatments can improve quality of life:
Medication that slows disease progression
Drug that protects neurons from oxidative damage
FDA-approved for patients with SOD1 variant
"Initial symptoms are often subtle and vary greatly between patients. That is why it is important to consult promptly when experiencing progressive loss of strength, difficulty performing routine movements, or changes in speech or swallowing." — Dr. Alejandro Köhler, Coordinator of the ALS Clinic at Fleni (Foundation for Neurological Research).
Source: Elonce.com | World ALS Day: June 21 | Fleni is a renowned neurological research center in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
