What human neurological disease is Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) compared to in its progressive nature?
Answer
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a serious, progressive neurological affliction that affects the nerve fibers in the spinal cord. Its mechanism of slow, debilitating attack on the nerves, which leads to increasing weakness, loss of coordination, and ultimately paralysis in the hind limbs, closely mirrors the progression of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in human patients. While DM currently lacks a cure, management strategies like physical rehabilitation and the use of mobility aids, such as dog wheelchairs, can be implemented to maintain the quality of life for affected adults, who typically start showing symptoms around eight years of age.
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