Patient's question:
I am 39 years old this year, and my age is gradually increasing. I am very concerned about my health issues. I usually dislike medical experiments. How many types of motor neuron disease are there?Doctor's answer:
(1) Primary lateral sclerosis (upper motor neuron disease) typically presents with weakness and stiffness in the limbs or lower extremities, spastic scissor gait during walking, increased muscle tone in the limbs, hyperactive tendon reflexes, and positive pathological signs. If the lesion involves both corticobulbar tracts, pseudobulbar palsy symptoms may appear. This condition is rarely seen clinically and usually onset in adulthood, with progression generally being very slow.(2) Progressive spinal muscular atrophy (lower motor neuron disease). Clinical manifestations include muscle atrophy and weakness in the upper and lower limbs, often starting with weakness and gradual atrophy of small hand muscles. It can affect one or both sides, or begin on one side and then involve the other. It may present as a claw hand.