Cortical function in progressive lower motor neuron disorders and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Abstract

The finding of reduced rCBF at rest, together with abnormal bilateral activation and altered somatotopy during movement, in the sensorimotor cortex of ALS but not LMND patients suggests that these abnormalities reflect loss of pyramidal neurons. Abnormal activation of perisylvian areas (insular and SII cortices) during limb movement in both LMND and ALS patients suggests that these may be accessory sensorimotor areas that are recruited nonspecifically in response to limb weakness.