What significance does NfL have for the prognosis of ALS?

The concentration of neurofilament light chain (NfL) is an expression of the
disease process and a prognostic factor for the progression of ALS. An increased NfL value
is statistically associated with increased ALS progression. Conversely, a lower
NfL value is considered a favorable prognostic factor.

NfL is therefore also referred to as an ALS progression marker. However, the interpretation of the NfL serum concentration is only useful and meaningful in conjunction with other prognostic factors of ALS. Important prognostic factors are the location of symptom onset, certain ALS variants, the ALS progression rate, respiratory capacity and coughing power, body weight and other factors that are explained and weighed up during a personal medical consultation.