Neuromuscular Diseases

Nine years have elapsed since the second edition of this book was published. In this time the principal advances in neuromuscular diseases have been in the application of molecular genetics to understanding the aetiology and pathogenesis of this group of disorders. As a result many previously unrecognised disorders have been charac terised. Some clinical syndromes, such as the limb girdle dystrophies, have become better defined. In many such instances the new genetic information has led to major advances in knowledge of the biology of cell structures, for example, the membrane structural and channel proteins. The clinical syndromes themselves, and their patho logical and electrophysiological characteristics, however, remain as important as ever, since they constitute the clinical problem itself and, indeed, the database from which all other concepts emerge. Knowledge of the pathogenesis, genetics, and molecular biology of neuromuscular disorders is essential both in developing and applying new therapies and preventive measures, and in formulating genetic and prognostic advice. However, this informa tion does not necessarily always define clinically useful syndromes. Myotonia, for example, is an electrophysiological finding in some syndromes in which it is un detectable by clinical examination, although the phenomenon itself was originally defined as a clinical entity. The limb girdle muscular dystrophy syndromes can be defined by severity, distribution of weakness, age of onset, sex distribution and other characteristics and many of these can be better understood by study of the under lying defect in cell structural proteins.

Comprehensive, thoroughly updated, and expanded, Neuromuscular Disorders in Clinical Practice, Second Edition encompasses all disorders of the peripheral nervous system, covering all aspects of neuromuscular diseases from diagnosis to treatment. Mirroring the first book, this two-volume edition is divided into two parts. Part one discusses the approach to neuromuscular disorders, covering principles and basics, neuromuscular investigations, and assessment and treatment of neurological disorders. Part two then addresses the complete range of specific neuromuscular diseases: neuronopathies, peripheral neuropathies, neuromuscular junction disorders, muscle ion channel disorders, myopathies, and miscellaneous neuromuscular disorders and syndromes. Neuromuscular Disorders in Clinical Practice, Second Edition is intended to serve as a comprehensive text for both novice and experienced practitioners. General neurologists as well as specialists in neuromuscular medicine and trainees in neuromuscular medicine, clinical neurophysiology and electromyography should find this book inclusive, comprehensive, practical and highly clinically focused. Additionally, specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation, rheumatology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics will find the book of great value in their practice.

This atlas presents a comprehensive outline of neuromuscular diseases, written by respected American and European authors. It discusses all aspects of neuromuscular disorders including cranial and spinal nerves, motor neuron diseases, nerve plexus, peripheral nerves, mono- and polyneuropathies, entrapment syndromes, neuromuscular junctions, and muscle disease. Each chapter is structured into the following sections: anatomy, symptoms, signs, pathogenesis, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, therapy and prognosis. The diagnostic tools in neuromuscular disease are explained and practical guidelines are offered on how to advance from symptoms to syndromes. The therapeutic options for each disease are also described. In this new edition, the structure of the chapters has been reorganized and chapters on principles of peripheral nerves, nerve pain, nerve surgery and rehabilitation have been added. The current trend of increased use of imaging techniques such as US and MRI in the diagnosis and follow-up of neuromuscular disorders is also reflected.

In this unique book, Dr. Bertorini guides you through more than 100 cases that demonstrate the diagnosis and management of a wide range of common and rare neuromuscular disorders. No other reference boasts such a large array of clinical studies devoted to all areas of this broad topic! Each case study reviews the etiologies, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, and management of a particular disorder, helping you not only recognize its presentation, but also determine a diagnosis and the best treatment plans for your patients. You’ll also find expert guidance on the basic mechanisms of neuromuscular disorders, clinical examination, and diagnostic tests—including EMG, muscle biopsy, genetic testing, and more. More than 100 detailed case studies explore both common and rare neuromuscular disorders and the treatment protocols for each, equipping you with the knowledge you need to confidently manage any challenge. Each case includes a summary of important points or highlights of the study. Case studies are arranged either by complaint or by diagnosis so that you can successfully manage your patients with or without an initial diagnosis. Comprehensive coverage of EMGs and nerve conduction studies and other diagnostic tests, including muscle and nerve biopsies and genetic testing, helps you accurately diagnose nerve, muscle, and neuromuscular transmission disorders. Detailed discussions of treatment plans and commonly used drugs enhance your management of autoimmune disorders, painful neuropathy, dysautonomia, and other neuromuscular disorders. A reader-friendly format takes you step by step through the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, from the basic anatomy and physiology of the nerve and muscle through to clinical evaluation, diagnostic testing, and therapy. More than 350 high-quality illustrations, including full-color patient photographs, biopsies, and EMG tracings, make complex concepts easier to understand and apply.

Neuromuscular medicine is constantly advancing in terms of accurate diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment. Many disorders that have been discovered within this field are either autoimmune or genetic. This publication provides the latest updates of the more common and treatable autoimmune neuromuscular diseases affecting the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junction and muscles. The authors, renowned experts in the field, offer clinical presentations as well as the best diagnostic and treatment approach to the readers. The chapters are dealing with acute and chronic neuropathies, nonsystemic vasculitic neuropathy, dysimmune neuropathy and autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy. Further, disorders such as myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies and stiff person syndrome are discussed.Providing an excellent source of up-to-date information, this publication is highly recommended not only to neurologists, but also to internists, rheumatologists, allergists and immunologists.

This atlas offers a comprehensive overview of neuromuscular diseases. It discusses all aspects of neuromuscular disorders, including general tools, the cranial and spinal nerves, the nerve plexus, peripheral nerves, mono- and polyneuropathies, entrapment syndromes, the neuromuscular junction, motor neuron diseases, muscle disease, and autonomic involvement. Each chapter is structured into the following sections: anatomy, symptoms, signs, pathogenesis, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis. The diagnostic tools used for neuromuscular disease are explained, and the therapeutic options for each disease are described. This updated third edition includes new chapters addressing a range of topics: from histology to molecular mechanisms, genetic aspects, the mechanisms of emerging new therapies, neuroimaging, neuromuscular disease, and new pathogenic mechanisms. The book aims to be a useful companion for neuromuscular disease. The homogenous structure, illustrations with figures, and representative images makes the atlas easy to read and helpful in understanding neuromuscular problems.

Neuromuscular disorders are diagnosed across the lifespan and create many challenges especially with infants, children and adolescents. This new edition of the definitive reference, edited by the established world renowned authorities on the science, diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders in childhood is a timely and needed resource for all clinicians and researchers studying neuromuscular disorders, especially in childhood. The Second Edition is completely revised to remain current with advances in the field and to insure this remains the standard reference for clinical neurologists and clinical research neurologists. The Second Edition retains comprehensive coverage while shortening the total chapter count to be an even more manageable and effective reference. Carefully revised new edition of the classic reference on neuromuscular disorders in infancy, childhood and adolescence. Definitive coverage of the basic science of neuromuscular disease and the latest diagnosis and treatment best practices. Includes coverage of clinical phenomenology, electrophysiology, histopathology, molecular genetics and protein chemistry

Here is a thoughtful new book for professionals who assist persons afflicted with neuromuscular disorders to help them and their families adapt to lifestyle changes accompanying the onset of these disorders. Health care professionals provide strategies to maintain the psychosocial well-being of children and adults with neuromuscular disorders which, in addition to physical damage, also assault the sense of self and challenge the individual’s ability to move and communicate. Chapters describe the psychosocial aspects of a variety of neuromuscular diseases such as Duchenne and myotonic muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Friedeich’s ataxia, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The distinctive characteristics of each disease are examined with special attention given to the natural history, treatment, management, and psychosocial issues of the specific disorder. Beyond the clinical and research importance of Muscular Dystrophy and Other Neuromuscular Diseases, it also addresses the anxiety, doubts, and questions felt by patients with chronic progressive disabilities and their families. This helpful guide is unique in the way it features the interaction of professionals in the social services, psychology, religion, and various medical specialties in the care and treatment of these patients. Professionals in all of these disciplines, as well as the patients and families afflicted by these disorders, will benefit from this valuable resource.