Scanning Tongue to Detect Motor Neurone Disease
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MRI Scans of the Tongue Show Promise in Early Motor Neurone disease (MND) Detection
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Published October 22,2023,at 21:19 EST. updated October 22,2025,at 21:19 EST.
The Link Between Tongue Muscles and Motor Neurone Disease
Standard magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans of the tongue may offer a non-invasive method for early detection and monitoring of Motor Neurone Disease (MND), also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Research led by Dr.Thomas Shaw of The University of Queensland’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science has revealed a correlation between tongue muscle size and the progression of MND.
Individuals with MND often experience difficulties with speech and swallowing, which are frequently linked to the weakening of tongue muscles. Dr. Shaw’s research suggests that measuring these changes in tongue muscle size via MRI could provide an early indicator of the disease. “There are 8 interconnected muscles in our tongues, each with a different role allowing us to eat, swallow and speak,” Dr. Shaw explained. “But for someone with a motor neuron disease, the tongue muscles – like many others in the body – progressively weaken and sadly, waste away.”
Being able to detect and track this symptom early would help patients and clinicians, especially with interventions like early access to clinical trials.– Dr. Thomas Shaw, University of Queensland.
Traditionally, assessing tongue muscle health has been challenging and frequently enough required invasive procedures.Though, standard brain MRI scans frequently capture images of the tongue alongside the brain, presenting a readily available and less intrusive choice.
Research Methodology and Findings
Dr.Shaw and his team examined MRI scans from over 200 participants. The study focused on quantifying the volume and structure of the eight intrinsic muscles within the tongue.The research demonstrated a statistically meaningful difference in tongue muscle size between individuals with MND and healthy control subjects. The findings suggest that subtle changes in tongue muscle volume can be detected even in the early stages of the disease, perhaps before other noticeable symptoms appear.
While the exact mechanisms linking tongue muscle degeneration to MND are still being investigated, the research supports the idea that the tongue serves as a sensitive indicator of broader neurodegenerative processes. The study highlights the potential for using readily available MRI data to improve early diagnosis and patient care.
Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis is critical for MND,as it allows patients to access supportive care,participate in clinical trials,and make informed decisions about their treatment options. Currently, diagnosis often relies on clinical assessments and electrophysiological tests, which can be time-consuming and may not detect the disease in its earliest stages.
The development of an MRI-based biomarker for MND could significantly accelerate the diagnostic process