"New Perspectives of Adaptation to NIV in ALS"

"New Perspectives of Adaptation to Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)"

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that the adaptation to the Non Invasive Ventilation (NIV) at home is not worse when compared with an adaptation performed in inpatient settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ALS diagnosis according to the criteria of El Escorial;
• Clinical indication to NIV (nocturnal hypoventilation and respiratory muscle weakness confirmed according to the criteria normally accepted);
• No respiratory infection within 3 months
• Severe disability (ALS-FRS <31);
• Age > 18 years;
• The voluntary participation to the Study.

Exclusion Criteria:

-- Previous episodes of pneumothorax;

• Comorbid cardiac and / or renal important
• Severe cognitive impairment;
• Refusal of the patient at the time of Informed Consent.