MedlinePlus Health Topics

Last uploaded: March 22, 2026
Id http://purl.bioontology.org/ontology/MEDLINEPLUS/C1853396
http://purl.bioontology.org/ontology/MEDLINEPLUS/C1853396
Preferred Name

Primary lateral sclerosis, juvenile

Definitions
Juvenile primary lateral sclerosis is a rare disorder characterized by progressive weakness and tightness (spasticity) of muscles in the arms, legs, and face. The features of this disorder are caused by damage to motor neurons, which are specialized nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement.~Symptoms of juvenile primary lateral sclerosis begin in early childhood and progress slowly over many years. Early symptoms include clumsiness, muscle weakness and spasticity in the legs, and difficulty with balance. As symptoms progress, the spasticity spreads to the arms and hands and individuals develop slurred speech, drooling, difficulty swallowing, and an inability to walk.
Synonyms
PLSJ
Juvenile primary lateral sclerosis
Juvenile PLS
JPLS
Type http://www.w3.org/2002/07/owl#Class
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