Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mexican neurology contributions from 1998 to 2014

The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by rapid deterioration and the selective death of motor neurons in the cerebral cortex, brainstem and spinal cord. In this paper we performed a literature review of the Mexican contributions during the last 15 years in relation to ALS. We have performed a systematic review through PubMed about publications of Mexican Researcher about ALS in English. There are 19 publications about ALS performed by Mexican researchers including case reports, series, experimental models, diagnostic methods and cellular therapy. One of them described epidemiological data in Mexican ALS patients that fulfilled El Escorial criteria to definite ALS. The age of onset was 47.5 years predominantly in men (1.8:1) with an interval of 12 months from onset to diagnosis. The survival was longer than described in other countries. In Mexico an estimated prevalence is between 5,000 to 7,000 ALS patients. In conclusion, the ALS diagnosis is challenging and death occurs in short term after onset. Few epidemiological are described in México; there is no effective treatment for this disorder. In México is imperative to create a national ALS registry and an association dedicated to support ALS patient, obtain economical funds from private sources and government to increase research in ALS.