Alternative Names & Classifications:
Primary Lateral Sclerosis (CLINICAL)
Description
Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS) belongs to the same family of motor neuron diseases as ALS, but crucially, it only attacks the upper motor neurons situated in the brain's cerebral cortex. As these cells gradually degenerate, they lose the ability to transmit signals down to the spinal cord, causing voluntary muscles to become progressively stiff and weak. It is significantly less fatal than ALS, primarily affecting individuals aged 40 to 60, and progresses very slowly.