RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT04406675

Social Cognition in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Sponsor

University Hospital, Angers

Enrollment

74 participants

Start Date

Sep 21, 2020

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Social Cognition

Summary

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Charcot disease, is a neurodegenerative disease evidenced by gradual paralysis of the muscles involved in voluntary motor function. The clinical hallmark of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is the combination of upper and lower motor neuron signs and symptoms. The most recent studies suggest that up to 50% of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis patients demonstrate mild to moderate cognitive disturbance. Impaired social cognition, including a deficit in the recognition of facial emotions and the identification of vocal prosody, is recognized as a part of the cognitive phenotype of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, with crucial implications for patients' and caregivers' training. However, studies remain scarce and the data acquired must be supported. The evolution of these manifestations during the disease is still poorly understood. In this study the investigators aim to assess the social cognition capacities of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis compared to healthy matched control subjects.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is examining social cognition — the ability to understand and interpret the thoughts, emotions, and intentions of others — in patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also called motor neurone disease. Although ALS is primarily known for affecting movement, it can also affect cognitive and social-emotional functions. Understanding these changes better may help improve communication strategies and support for patients and their families. Healthy control participants are also needed for comparison. You may be eligible if... - You are 18 years of age or older - You have a diagnosis of ALS (for the patient group), OR you are a healthy individual without any significant illness (for the control group) - You have at least 7 years of education - French is your native language - You come accompanied to the appointment (patients only) You may NOT be eligible if... - You are participating in another interventional clinical trial with experimental treatment - You have a cognitive impairment that prevents you from completing the study tests - You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or recently gave birth - You are under legal restriction or psychiatric care under duress - You lack social security affiliation - You have a history likely to affect cognition Talk to your neurologist about whether your ALS diagnosis and cognitive function make you a suitable candidate for this study.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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