Spinal Cord 1999 Aug; 37(8): 592-3
ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVES: Liquorpheresis (CSF filtration) has been shown to be of benefit in various neurologic disorders, including sporadic ALS. Liquorpheresisin patients with familial ALS, has not been investigated so far. METHODS: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 offvia an intrathecal catheter and a combined mechanical and ionic filter bymeans of a bi-directional syringe pump. RESULTS: Immediately after treatmentand 2 weeks later there was subjective, but no objective, improvement ofher symptoms, assessed by the Norris score and measurements of the elbow extension, vital capacity, F-waves of both ulnar nerves and automatic EMGof the right brachial biceps and anterior tibial muscles. CONCLUSION: Liquorpheresisdoes not seem to be helpful in the treatment of familial ALS.