Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, Lou Gehrig disease) usua

[Hijeck]

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, Lou Gehrig disease) usually has onset at older ages but is seen occasionally in young adults. Epidemiologic study indicates slight male predominance and slight excess of cases in the Western Pacific. Most cases are sporadic (i.e., are isolated) but occasional families have more than one individual affected with an autosomal dominant pattern. Which of the following is the best description of this disease?

a. Inherited
b. Genetic
c. Sporadic
d. Congenital
e. Familial

[Hijeck]

Option e is correct, since ALS is not always sporadic, not always inherited or genetic, and not present at birth.