\n<\/p>\n
The actor died on Thursday, Feb. 19 from respiratory failure related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
\n\tThe cause of death of Eric Dane<\/a> has been confirmed following his death<\/a> on Thursday, Feb. 19.<\/p>\n \n\tThe veteran actor died at the age of 53 from respiratory failure related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, according to People<\/a><\/em>. Dane revealed his ALS diagnosis<\/a> 10 months ago. The rare degenerative disease affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, as well as breathing. According to the Mayo Clinic, ALS causes loss of muscle control and there is currently no cure for this disease. The exact cause of the disease is still not known, although a small group of cases is inherited.<\/p>\n \n\tThe National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that as motor neurons degenerate and die, they stop sending messages to the muscles, which causes muscle weakness, twitching, and atrophy. Eventually, those with ALS often experience trouble talking, walking, and swallowing, and the symptoms worsen over time. In television appearances and social media posts, Dane often shared the challenges of living with ALS and advocated for awareness and research into the disease.<\/p>\n