INFORMATION ON MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

The muscular dystrophies are a group of more than 30 genetic diseases characterized by progressive weakness and degeneration of the skeletal muscles that control movement. Some forms of muscular dystrophies are seen in infancy or childhood, while others may not appear until middle age or later. The disorders differ in terms of the distribution and extent of muscle weakness, age of onset, rate of progression, and pattern of inheritance. Refers to any of the diseases and disorders that affect the human muscle system. Because muscles and nerves supplying muscle operate as a functional unit, disease of both systems results in muscular atrophy and paralysis.

SYNONYMS OF MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

Synonyms of Muscular Dystrophy are:

1. Fibromyalgia.
2. Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia.
3. Isaacs Syndrome.
4. McArdle's.
5. Muscular Dystrophies.
6. Myopathies
7. Myotonic Dystrophy.
8. Myasthenia Gravis.
9. Periodic Paralysis.
10. Post Polio Syndrome.
11. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy.
12. Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
13. Stiff-Person Syndrome.
14. Tangier.

CAUSES OF MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

The muscular dystrophies are caused by genetic defects, which mean they are inherited at birth.

SYMPTOMS OF MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

Muscle weakness is the common major symptom of all types of muscular dystrophies A child who has muscular dystrophies may start to stumble, waddle, have difficulty going up stairs, and toe walk. A child may start to struggle to get up from a sitting position or have a hard time pushing things, like a wagon or a tricycle.

DIAGNOSIS OF MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

Lab tests may include blood level of the muscle enzyme creatine kinase; muscle biopsy; Electromyogram to check muscle response when stimulated; and genetic tests for the presence of the mutated gene for DMD, BMD, DM, several forms of LGMD, and EDMD. An electrocardiogram may also be needed.

TREATMENT OF MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

No specific treatment is known. Inactivity like Bedrest worsens the disease. Physical therapy and exercises are advised to maintain muscle strength. There is no specific treatment to cure or halt MD. Physical therapy, exercise, orthopedic appliances, or corrective orthopedic surgery may help to preserve muscle function and prevent joint contractures as much as possible and improve quality of life.

Treatment includes:

Heel cord surgery
Spine-straightening surgery
Medications - corticosteroids