A clustering of conjugal amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in southeastern France

Background: The origin of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains largely unknown but seems to be multifactorial. We believe that ALS,clusters may help clinicians understand or analyze the role of environmental factors in ALS pathogenesis. Objective: To describe a cluster of conjugal ALS in southeastern France. Patients: We describe 9 couples in which both spouses were affected by ALS. Eight of the 9 had lived in southeastern France. In all cases, the spouses were married for more than 10 years. Three couples lived in the same departement and 2 of them in the same city. Results: To our knowledge, such a large cluster of conjugal ALS cases has not been previously reported. No precise environmental factors could be identified at the origin of these conjugal cases. Conclusions: We suggest that genetic and environmental factors, or both, may explain the occurrence of this cluster of ALS.