Liquorpheresis (CSF filtration) in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Abstract

Liquorpheresis (CSF filtration) has been shown to be of benefit in various neurologic disorders, including sporadic ALS. Liquorpheresis in patients with familial ALS, has not been investigated so far. A 52-year-old woman with familial ALS is reported who underwent liquorpheresis during 4 consecutive days. During this period, 875 ml CSF were filtered off via an intrathecal catheter and a combined mechanical and ionic filter by means of a bi-directional syringe pump. Immediately after treatment and 2 weeks later there was subjective, but no objective, improvement of her symptoms, assessed by the Norris score and measurements of the elbow extension, vital capacity, F-waves of both ulnar nerves and automatic EMG of the right brachial biceps and anterior tibial muscles. Liquorpheresis does not seem to be helpful in the treatment of familial ALS.