Chronic respiratory insufficiency in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. As the disease progresses, respiratory function becomes increasingly compromised. Supporting respiratory function is the treatment with the greatest potential impact on life expectancy and should align with the patientʼs wishes to ensure quality of life. Optimal secretion management is essential for effective non-invasive mechanical ventilation therapy, as argued in this review. Home invasive mechanical ventilation is reserved for a small subset of patients.