ALS & Neurodegenerative Disease Center

The UCSF ALS & Neurodegenerative Disease Center provides comprehensive care for patients with progressive diseases in which nervous system cells lose function. These conditions include motor neuron diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

ALS attacks nerve cells and pathways in the brain and spinal cord, causing the body's motor neurons to waste away. The result is increasing muscle weakness and incoordination, leading to difficulty with mobility, speaking, swallowing and breathing. Proper treatment can help control symptoms and allow patients to maintain more independence in their daily lives.

Our ALS team includes specialists in many fields, including neurology; pulmonology; gastroenterology; diet and nutrition; communication; social work; and occupational, physical, speech and respiratory therapies. Our patients also have access to an orthotist, a specialist in braces and other devices to support weak muscles and joints. Representatives from local patient advocacy organizations offer support as well. With all of us working together, we provide comprehensive care that's as effective as possible for each patient. Our patients also may be eligible to participate in clinical trials, studies to test promising new medications or other types of treatment.

Our program has been named a certified treatment center of excellence by the ALS Association. We are part of the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences.