Is stiff person syndrome the same as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Stiff person syndrome is not amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Stiff person syndrome is a disorder characterized by muscle rigidity, episodic muscle spasms, and heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as sound or touch. In contrast, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects upper and lower motor neurons.

Patients with stiff person syndrome commonly experience symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and slowed movement. In contrast, early-stage ALS patients may initially exhibit only mild muscle weakness and atrophy. As the disease progresses, muscles gradually lose function, eventually leading to complete paralysis and respiratory failure, with most patients dying from respiratory failure within 3 to 5 years after onset.

Stiff person syndrome is primarily associated with abnormal immune responses, and treatment may involve the use of benzodiazepines and immunosuppressive medications. ALS, however, is thought to be related to multiple factors including genetic and environmental influences. Currently, there is no effective cure, but the progression of the disease can be slowed through medications and physical therapy.