The new ALS-OPM classification is now in the ALS app.

We are pleased to introduce an important new feature in the ALS app today:

The new OPM classification is now live!

The OPM classification has been available in the current app version 5.10.4 for iOS (Apple) and Android (Google) since yesterday.

What does the OPM classification mean?

The phenotype of ALS – i.e. the individual manifestation of the disease – is determined by three anatomical factors:

1. Location of symptom onset (“O”)
   The region of the body in which the first motor symptoms occur is recorded here (e.g. arm, leg, bulbar).
2. Propagation pattern (“P”)
   This describes how the symptoms spread from the initial location to other parts of the body.
3. Motor neuron symptoms (“M”)
   This factor indicates the extent to which the first motor neuron and/or the second motor neuron are affected.
   ALS can affect both motor neuron systems to varying degrees, which influences the course of the disease.

These three factors can be determined individually for each patient and the combination of “O”, “P” and “M” is referred to as the OPM classification.

Why is the OPM classification important?

The OPM classification helps to determine the individual prognosis. It enables a more precise description of the course of the disease and helps to better classify changes in the disease. It can therefore support the planning and evaluation of therapeutic measures.

OPM classification now in the ALS app

• The OPM classification will be displayed in the app after the update to version 5.10.4.
• You will find the information in the “My progression forms” section
• The presentation is clearly structured so that you can understand your OPM classification at any time.

Further medical information on the OPM classification can be found at: https://als-charite.de/amyotrophe-lateralsklerose-ursachen-symptome/#Verlauf-und-Prognose

Where does the data for the OPM classification come from?

The data on OPM classification is transferred from the “NfL (neurofilament light chain) in ALS” study to the ALS app.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any comments or questions.

Yours sincerely

Dr. Senthil Subramanian

Manager ALS App Europe Initiative