A 58-year-old female, accompanied by her husband, presents with trouble walking. She describes her legs as being heavy and stiff, and at times experiences muscle spasms in her lower extremities. Her husband notices that she has been having trouble writing, and buttoning her shirt. These symptoms have progressively worsened over that past 4-5 months. Neurologic exam is significant for intrinsic hand weakness, and arm fasciculations. The lower extremity is hypertonic, with increased patellar reflexes. On gait testing, the patient has poor balance, moves slowly, and has issues with turning. Which of the following is the best treatment to prolong life?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Riluzole is the only FDA-approved medication shown to prolong life in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It works by reducing glutamate-induced excitotoxicity, which is thought to contribute to motor neuron degeneration. Pyridostigmine is used for myasthenia gravis, botulinum toxin for spasticity, prednisone for inflammatory conditions, and intravenous immunoglobulin for autoimmune disorders. None of these treatments have been shown to prolong life in ALS.