Diagnosing Motor Neurone Disease: Process and Support

Diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) should be diagnosed by a neurologist. There is no single test for MND; rather, diagnosis is based on a combination of factors:

• Clinical Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted.
• Patient History: The neurologist will review the patient’s medical history and symptoms.
• Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies: These muscle tests help assess nerve and muscle function.
• Additional Tests: MRI scans, blood tests, and possibly a lumbar puncture may be used to exclude other neurological conditions.

Diagnosis can be a lengthy process, often taking up to 11 months on average. This is due to the need to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as foot drop. The neurologist must ensure that all other potential causes are addressed before confirming MND as the final diagnosis.

Post-Diagnosis Support

Once a diagnosis of MND is confirmed, it is crucial for the patient to be connected with appropriate support services. This involves:

• Referral to Support Services: The patient should be referred to the Motor Neurone Disease Association and local support teams.
• Immediate Notification: In our area, the consultant informs the local team immediately after diagnosis.
• Clinic Attendance: Where possible, a member of the support team may attend the clinic with the doctor when the diagnosis is confirmed.
• Initial Assessment: The patient will be seen by an appropriate team member, such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist, either in an outpatient setting or at home, depending on their needs.
• Further Referrals: Based on the initial assessment, the patient may be linked with additional services such as speech and language therapy or respiratory consultants, as required.