Actor Eric Dane has revealed he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of motor neurone disease.
The US actor, who is best known for his role as doctor Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy, confirmed his diagnosis to People magazine.
The 52-year-old said he was "grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter".
He said he would continue to work and was "looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria", while asking for privacy for himself and his family.
You may already be familiar with ALS, especially if you took part in the viral ice bucket challenge to raise awareness of the condition back in 2014.
But if not, here are the disorder's main symptoms and treatments.
What is ALS?
ALS is the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND).
It is a terminal degenerative disorder that causes progressive paralysis of the muscles.
According to Health Direct, because the disease affects the nerve cells in the brain and spine that control muscle movement, patients slowly lose the use of their limbs and ability to speak, swallow and breathe independently.
MND Australia says:
"Weak muscles, stiff limbs and overactive reflexes are key features of ALS.
"It most commonly starts in a limb (arm or leg) and progresses over time to other parts of the body."
To clarify, MND is the widely used generic term in Australia, the UK and parts of Europe. ALS is used more generically in the US, Canada and South America.
Other stars who have been diagnosed with ALS include R&B singer Roberta Flack, Star Trek actor Kenneth Mitchell and SpongeBob creator Stephen Hillenburg.
Oscar winner Sandra Bullock's longtime partner Bryan Randall died from ALS in 2023.
What causes it?
The exact cause of ALS is unknown.
Health Direct says about one in 10 cases are "familial", meaning the condition is inherited.
What are the first warning signs of ALS?
ALS generally begins with muscle weakness that spreads and gets worse over time.
Initial symptoms might include:
- Stumbling
- Difficulty holding and gripping objects
- Slurred speech
- Swallowing difficulties
- Cramps and muscle twitching
As the disease progresses, patients may develop:
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue caused by muscle tiredness, reduced lung capacity, weight loss, reduced food intake and changes to metabolism
- Insomnia
- Mild changes in cognitive skills
- Some pain and discomfort
ALS does not usually affect the senses including the ability to taste, smell, touch or hear.
How does ALS affect life expectancy?
The rate at which ALS progresses can vary from one person to another.
But the mean survival time with the disease is two to five years.
However, some patients can live for decades, like Stephen Hawking, who lived with the disorder for 55 years before dying at 76.
There is currently no cure for ALS.
