Glossary of ALS-Related Medical and Scientific Terms

(Presented by The ALS Association Greater New York Chapter)

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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Select a letter from the list above.

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delusions A condition in which the patient has lost touch with reality and experiences hallucinations and misperceptions.

dementia Not a disease itself, but group of symptoms that is characterized by a decline in intellectual functioning that is severe enough to interfere with the ability to perform routine activities.

dendrite Extensions from the neuron cell body that take information to the cell body. A single nerve may possess many dendrites.

DNA One of two types of molecules that encode genetic information

dopa decarboxylase An enzyme present in the body that converts levodopa to dopamine.

dopamine A chemical substance, a neurotransmitter, found in the brain that regulates movement, balance, and walking.

dynein A protein in nerve cells that helps move materials inside the cells

dysarthria Impaired speech and language due to weakness or stiffness in the muscles used for speaking.

dyskinesia An involuntary movement including athetosis and chorea.

dysphagia Difficulty in swallowing.

dystonia A slow movement or extended spasm in a group of muscles.

dystrophin A protein, a chemical substance made by muscle fibers.

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