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1. Introduction

Progressive muscle weakness in elderly patients often presents as a diagnostic challenge due to multiple potential etiologies. This report details a case that combines typical age-related factors with an unusual underlying pathology, emphasizing the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis. This case contributes to the understanding of rare neuromuscular conditions in the geriatric population, with a focus on the significance of early intervention and monitoring.

2. Case Presentation

2.1. Patient Information

• Age: 72 years

• Gender: Male

• Ethnicity: Caucasian

• Occupation: Retired teacher

• Presenting Complaint(s): Gradual onset of muscle weakness, primarily in the lower limbs, reported over 6 months.

2.2. History of Present Illness

• Onset: The patient reports the weakness began gradually, around early January 2050.
  

• Character: Initially noted as difficulty rising from a seated position and performing everyday activities like climbing stairs.
  

• Associated Symptoms: Occasional muscle cramps and fatigue, but no pain, numbness, or tingling.

2.3. Past Medical History

• Hypertension - managed with medication for 15 years.

• Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 - diagnosed 10 years ago, currently on metformin.

• No significant family history of neuromuscular diseases or genetic disorders.

2.4. Medications and Allergies

• Current Medications:

  • Lisinopril 10 mg once daily

  • Metformin 500 mg twice daily

• Known Allergies: Penicillin - causes rash and hives

2.5. Social and Lifestyle History

• Smoking Status: Non-smoker

• Alcohol Consumption: Occasional, 1-2 drinks per month

• Physical Activity: Previously active with daily walking; limited by weakness since early 2050

3. Investigations and Diagnostics

3.1. Physical Examination

3.2. Laboratory Investigations

3.3. Imaging

• MRI of the Lower Limbs: Showed mild atrophy of quadriceps muscles without significant edema.

• EMG Study: Demonstrated evidence of chronic motor neuron degeneration, suggesting a neuromuscular disorder.

4. Differential Diagnosis

• Primary Diagnosis Considered: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) - based on progressive muscle weakness and EMG findings.
  

• Secondary Possible Diagnoses:

  • Polymyositis - muscle weakness with elevated CK levels, although lacks characteristic muscle pain.
    

  • Inclusion Body Myositis - considered due to age and progression, but EMG findings were more consistent with ALS.
    

  • Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) - ruled out due to lack of sensory involvement and normal reflexes.

5. Treatment and Management

5.1. Initial Management

• Medications Prescribed:

  • Riluzole 50 mg twice daily to slow disease progression.

  • Vitamin D Supplement due to a low baseline level.
    

• Non-Pharmacological Interventions:

  • Referral to physical therapy for strength preservation.

  • Nutritional support to maintain caloric intake as muscle mass decreases.

5.2. Hospital Course

5.3. Discharge Plan

• Medications at Discharge: Continued Riluzole, added Vitamin D3 supplements.

• Patient Education: Advised on energy conservation techniques, potential for symptom progression, and importance of regular follow-up.

6. Outcome and Follow-up

6.1. Short-term Outcome

The patient showed a mild improvement in mobility and was able to resume light activity with assistance from a walker by March 2050.

6.2. Long-term Follow-up

7. Discussion

7.1. Interpretation of Findings

This case aligns with typical ALS progression, showing muscle weakness with mild atrophy and elevated CK levels. EMG findings further support motor neuron involvement, consistent with ALS but atypical in onset due to the patient's advanced age.

7.2. Comparison to Similar Cases

Literature shows late-onset ALS is less common but follows a similar clinical progression, with slower disease course and longer periods of initial stability compared to younger-onset ALS.

7.3. Implications for Clinical Practice

• Consideration of ALS in elderly patients with atypical neuromuscular symptoms can lead to earlier intervention and improved quality of life.
  

• Importance of a multidisciplinary approach that includes physical therapy, nutritional support, and psychological support.

7.4. Limitations of the Case Report

• The lack of genetic testing limits understanding of potential hereditary factors.

• Further imaging, such as high-resolution muscle MRI, may provide additional insights but was unavailable at the treating facility.

8. Conclusion

• Summary of Key Findings: This case illustrates a rare presentation of ALS in an elderly patient, highlighting the need for comprehensive neuromuscular evaluation in similar cases.

• Future Directions: Research into ALS progression among older adults could yield insights into age-specific treatment approaches and supportive care models.

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