[Total magnesium in serum and cerebrospinal fluid in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis].

The significance of trace elements in the aetiopathogenesis of ALS is still unknown. Magnesium plays an essential role in fundamental cellular reactions. The aim of this study was to estimate total magnesium concentration in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of ALS patients. 15 persons with ALS and 12 controls took part in the examination. Magnesium was determined by spectrophotometric atomic-absorption method. Total magnesium concentration in serum of ALS patients was statistically insignificant lower than in the control group, but in cerebrospinal fluid was it statistically insignificantly higher than in the control group. Outcomes of our own investigations do not show any essential role of magnesium in the aetiopathogenesis of ALS.