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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis This is most commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Loe Gehrig was a famous baseball player, and his case made it a known disease that received national attention. A study was done in 1991, and familial ALS was found on chromosome 21. Later discoveries pinpointed a mutation in the gene that codes for an enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD), as responsible for a percentage of familial cases. These defects do not appear to be …

…try to control the symptoms and not cure them. Baclofen or diazepam can be used to control the spasticity that interferes with daily activities. Trihexyphenidyl or amitriptyline are used for swallowing when it becomes difficult. Physical therapy, rehabilitation, and use of appliances (braces and wheelchairs) to maximize muscle function and general health. The prognosis of this disease is fatal. Death usually occurs within 2-10 years of the first symptoms. Though 20% live longer than five years.