FOLLOW-UP of Dementia in Motor Neuron Disease

Deterrence/Prevention

No effective methods exist.

Complications

Progressive bulbar palsy results in dysphagia, the risk of aspiration pneumonia, and mutism.
Muscular wasting and weakness may occur.
Parkinsonism may develop in some patients.
Dyspnea and hypoxic encephalopathy may be related positionally and can interfere with reclining for sleep.

Prognosis

Clinical signs of MND follow or accompany the onset of dementia.
MND is responsible for death, which usually occurs within 3 years of onset.

Patient Education

For excellent patient education resources, visit eMedicine's Dementia Center. Also, see eMedicine's patient education articles Dementia Overview, Dementia Medication Overview, and Dementia in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.