The Role of the Otolaryngologist in Early Recognition of Patients With ALS: A Case Report

This case report aims to raise awareness of the possibility of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis in patients presenting to the Otolaryngology Department. We describe the case of a 66-year-old woman with hoarseness who was evaluated by several physicians and was referred to an ALS specialist only a year after symptom onset. Our case highlights the importance of considering motor neuron etiologies in patients with voice complaints. Early identification and referral to a specialist are critical for accurate diagnosis and prognosis and may be the key to slowing the disease's progression.