Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident) |
Acute disruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to ischaemia and cell death. |
- Sudden onset unilateral weakness
- Facial drooping, slurred speech
- Loss of coordination or balance
|
- CT or MRI of the brain to confirm stroke and rule out hemorrhage
- Doppler ultrasound of carotid arteries
- ECG to detect atrial fibrillation
|
- Thrombolysis/Thrombectomy (within 4.5 hours for ischaemic stroke)
- Antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation if indicated
- BP control and Surgery if large haematoma
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
|
Multiple Sclerosis |
A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by demyelination of the central nervous system. |
- Intermittent episodes of limb weakness
- Optic neuritis (vision loss)
- Balance and coordination problems
|
- MRI of the brain and spinal cord to detect demyelinating lesions
- CSF analysis showing oligoclonal bands
- Evoked potentials to assess nerve conduction
|
- Immunomodulatory therapy (e.g., interferons, glatiramer acetate)
- Steroids for acute exacerbations
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
|
Guillain-Barré Syndrome |
An acute, autoimmune, demyelinating polyneuropathy affecting peripheral nerves. |
- Symmetrical weakness starting in the lower limbs, ascending to upper limbs
- Absent reflexes
- May affect respiratory muscles
|
- Nerve conduction studies (slowed conduction)
- CSF analysis (elevated protein without elevated white blood cells)
- EMG to assess neuromuscular function
|
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or plasmapheresis
- Respiratory support in severe cases
- Rehabilitation for recovery
|
Myasthenia Gravis |
An autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction, impairing signal transmission. |
- Fluctuating muscle weakness, often worsening with activity
- Ptosis, diplopia (double vision)
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
|
- Acetylcholine receptor antibody test (positive in most cases)
- Edrophonium test (temporary improvement in strength)
- EMG showing decremental response with repetitive stimulation
|
- Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., pyridostigmine)
- Immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids, azathioprine)
- Thymectomy if indicated
|
Peripheral Neuropathy |
Damage to peripheral nerves, commonly associated with diabetes, infections, or toxic exposures. |
- Gradual onset of weakness and numbness, usually starting in the feet and hands
- Pain, tingling, or burning sensations
|
- Nerve conduction studies to assess the extent of nerve damage
- Blood tests for diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, and thyroid function
- Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve and muscle function
|
- Management of underlying cause (e.g., glycemic control for diabetes)
- Medications for neuropathic pain (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin)
- Physical therapy to improve strength and balance
|
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) |
A progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. |
- Gradual onset of muscle weakness and atrophy
- Dysarthria (speech difficulties)
- Fasciculations (muscle twitching)
|
- EMG showing loss of motor neuron function
- Nerve conduction studies to rule out other causes of neuropathy
- MRI to rule out spinal cord lesions or other mimicking conditions
|
- Riluzole to slow disease progression
- Respiratory support when needed
- Supportive care, including physical therapy and nutritional support
|
Spinal Cord Compression |
Compression of the spinal cord due to trauma, herniated disc, tumor, or infection. |
- Weakness below the level of the compression
- Back pain
- Bowel or bladder dysfunction
|
- MRI of the spine to assess the location and cause of the compression
- X-ray or CT scan to detect bone fractures or tumor involvement
- CT myelogram if MRI is contraindicated
|
- Surgical decompression or radiotherapy (depending on the cause)
- High-dose corticosteroids to reduce swelling and prevent further damage
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
|