progressive muscular atrophy

Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by the gradual loss of motor neurons, which control voluntary muscle movement. This loss leads to progressive muscle wasting and weakness, eventually resulting in paralysis.1

PMA can be a subtype of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig disease. In PMA, the degeneration is most pronounced in the spinal cord, and while muscle weakness is present, spasticity is absent. Individuals with PMA generally survive longer than those with typical ALS.1

Other conditions that cause progressive muscular atrophy include certain types of muscular dystrophy, which are hereditary disorders characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. These conditions can affect different muscle groups and have varying rates of progression and inheritance patterns.2