Prognosis and Duration

In the commonest types of motor neurone disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or progressive bulbar palsy) the disease advances relentlessly and the outlook is very poor. Severe functional restrictions develop quickly over a relatively short period of time. The prognosis is worse for people who present with progressive bulbar symptoms, usually less than 2 years. People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis survive 2 – 5 years from onset of symptoms. However since diagnosis may be delayed average survival from the time of diagnosis is only 14 months.

People developing the condition at a younger age i.e. less than 50 years, tend to survive longer, as do people with progressive muscle atrophy.

In all cases – Indefinite award

All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.

Amended June 2008