Testing and Diagnoses

Testing and Diagnoses of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

As ALS progresses, symptoms such as muscle weakness and atrophy become apparent. To diagnose ALS, your physician will consider your medical history and symptoms and perform certain tests to rule out other conditions.

There is not one specific test to diagnose ALS. Your physician will take into account your medical history and symptoms, and may use one or more of the following tests to arrive at a diagnosis:

• Blood test
• Electromyogram (EMG)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Muscle Biopsy
• Nerve Biopsy
• Neurological Exam
• Spinal Tab (Lumbar Puncture)
• Thyroid Function Test
• Urine Test
• X-ray