Which of the following diagnoses is most likely in a patient who experiences progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass in the upper extremities?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Progressive weakness and muscle wasting in the upper extremities is a hallmark feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons. Guillain-Barré syndrome typically presents with weakness and sensory symptoms that ascend from the lower to upper extremities. Parkinson disease primarily affects the basal ganglia and presents with tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Hydrocephalus refers to an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which can cause cognitive and motor deficits, but is not typically associated with progressive weakness in the upper extremities.

Which of the Following Diagnoses Is Most Likely in a Patient