projet ALS-FTD

This clinical study is being organized to improve the early diagnosis of various forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their complications using advanced high-field MRI sequences.
This observational study is expected to include 320 patients over a period of 8 years.
Your participation has been discussed by the neurologist who usually treats you due to your condition. The study itself will consist of:
- A specialized neurology consultation during which Dr. Geron will interview you to collect all the data and information necessary for the study, such as your demographics (age, weight, height, gender), as well as data regarding your medical history, medication use, diet, and addictions (smoking behavior, alcohol consumption). A complete neurological examination will be performed, as well as a neurocognitive assessment (ECAS scale).
- A high-field brain MRI session at the GIGA-CRC Human Imaging (at the Sart Tilman site). During this session, you will complete safety and suitability questionnaires for the exam (approximately 5-7 minutes) and then be comfortably seated on the MRI table. The sequences will continue for approximately 45 minutes. No injections will be administered. After the exam, you may return home.
- A biannual clinical follow-up will be provided by Dr. Geron. During each visit, she will assess your situation and perform a neurological clinical examination and an internationally validated cognitive screening test (given their low test/retest effect, the aforementioned cognitive assessment will be performed every 3 to 6 months). This consultation will be organized at the reference center where the ALS convention to which you belong takes place (CRMN of the CHR Citadelle or CNRF of the CHU de Liège) and will last approximately 45 minutes.