Practice parameter update: the care of the patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: multidisciplinary care, symptom management, and cognitive/behavioral impairment (an evidence-based review): report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To systematically review evidence bearing on the management of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods

The authors analyzed studies from 1998 to 2007 to update the 1999 practice parameter. Topics covered in this section include breaking the news, multidisciplinary clinics, symptom management, cognitive and behavioral impairment, communication, and palliative care for patients with ALS.

Results

The authors identified 2 Class I studies, 8 Class II studies, and 30 Class III studies in ALS, but many important areas have been little studied. More high-quality, controlled studies of symptomatic therapies and palliative care are needed to guide management and assess outcomes in patients with ALS.

Recommendations

Multidisciplinary clinic re

SUBMITTER: Miller RG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2764728 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature