amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

noun

amyo·​tro·​phic lateral sclerosis ˌā-ˌmī-ə-ˈtrō-fik-  -ˈträ- 

: a rare progressive degenerative fatal disease affecting the motor neurons, usually beginning in middle age, and characterized especially by increasing and spreading muscular weakness and atrophy

—abbreviation ALS

called also Lou Gehrig's disease

Examples of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Patients and doctors often complain about coverage denials and other complications interfering with care, especially for serious illnesses like cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. —Linley Sanders, TIME, 27 Dec. 2024

Advertisement Patients and doctors often complain about coverage denials and other complications interfering with care, especially for serious illnesses such as cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. —Linley Sanders, Los Angeles Times, 27 Dec. 2024

Bonsall, 76, was the tenor vocalist for the Oak Ridge Boys for decades before retiring six months ago due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS. —Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 10 July 2024

The award is named after Matt Hazeltine, who played more seasons at linebacker than any other 49er and who died in 1987 from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). —Matt Barrows, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

a- entry 2 + my- + -trophic

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

noun

: a rare fatal progressive degenerative disease that affects pyramidal motor neurons, usually begins in middle age, and is characterized especially by increasing and spreading muscular weakness

—abbreviation ALS

called also Lou Gehrig's disease