Standardized information is compiled and entered in a computerized relational database that defines the clinical characteristics of this group of patients. The course of ALS can be variable, with onset of first symptom to death ranging from less than 1 year to more than 10 years.
Individual patients can have vastly different rates of disease progression.
Information from this study will serve to identify the unique features of individual presentations and permit comparisons with other groups of ALS patients. The final goal of this study is to maintain a high level of medical care tailored to the needs of the individual patients. Graphs of the total score from the AALS Rating Scale from three different patients depicting a slow, intermediate, and fast rate of progression. The AALS total score is the sum of all 5 assessments and covers a broad range of disability. Data from the individual tests are recorded separately and can be analyzed independently.