Question

Atrophy of the intrinsic muscles of the right arm and forearm. Reflexes are generally brisk, plantar reflexes are extensor. Electrophysiology shows widespread fasciculations, fibrillation and sharp waves. Dx?

Answer 1

The student's symptoms suggest a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing muscle atrophy and weakness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The symptoms described, including atrophy of the intrinsic muscles of the right arm and forearm, brisk reflexes, extensor plantar reflexes, widespread fasciculations, fibrillation, and sharp waves observed on electrophysiology, point towards a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of muscle control and eventual paralysis.