What can I learn from genetic testing?

With genetic testing, you may be able to learn:

• If the type of ALS you have is linked to a pathogenic variant (difference in specific genes that may cause people to develop ALS)
• If you’re likely to experience other symptoms in the future, like cognitive changes (changes in how you think and behave)
• If there are more effective ways to manage your ALS symptoms
• If you can participate in certain clinical trials (research studies where participants try new medical treatments) or other research studies
• If your children or other family members are more likely to develop ALS or related conditions

You may have heard that ALS can run in families. With genetic testing, you may find out if your children or other people in your family — like siblings or cousins — are more likely to develop ALS. Some people living with ALS use this information to make decisions about having children and plan for their family’s future.