AMERICAN ACADEMY of PEDIATRICS Cardiovascular

Total Page:16

File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb

AMERICAN ACADEMY of PEDIATRICS Cardiovascular AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS CLINICAL REPORT Organizational Principles to Guide and Define the Child Health Care System and/or Improve the Health of All Children Section on Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery Cardiovascular Health Supervision for Individuals Affected by Duchenne or Becker Muscular Dystrophy ABSTRACT. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the most ease is characterized by alternating areas of myocyte common and severe form of the childhood muscular hypertrophy, atrophy, and fibrosis.8 dystrophies. The disease is typically diagnosed between Over the last 20 years, respiratory care of this 3 and 7 years of age and follows a predictable clinical group of patients has improved as a result of the course marked by progressive skeletal muscle weakness development of supportive equipment and tech- with loss of ambulation by 12 years of age. Death occurs 9 in early adulthood secondary to respiratory or cardiac niques. Consequently, dilated cardiomyopathy is 10–12 failure. Becker muscular dystrophy is less common and increasing as the major cause of death. The time has a milder clinical course but also results in respiratory course for the development of cardiomyopathy has and cardiac failure. The natural history of the cardiomy- not been well characterized; however, clinical studies opathy in these diseases has not been well established. demonstrate that the disease process in the heart is As a result, patients traditionally present for cardiac eval- underway long before symptoms appear.13–15 Early uation only after clinical symptoms become evident. The manifestations of heart failure often go unrecognized purpose of this policy statement is to provide recommen- secondary to physical inactivity and a lack of classic dations for optimal cardiovascular evaluation to health 16 care specialists caring for individuals in whom the diag- signs and symptoms. Signs of cardiac dysfunction nosis of Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy has may be vague and nonspecific, such as fatigue, been confirmed. Pediatrics 2005;116:1569–1573; cardio- weight loss, vomiting, or sleep disturbance. Cur- vascular. rently at many medical centers, affected individuals do not come to the attention of the cardiac specialist until late in the disease process when the clinical ABBREVIATIONS. DMD, Duchenne muscular dystrophy; BMD, Becker muscular dystrophy. manifestations of cardiac dysfunction become evi- dent. This reactive, rather than proactive, approach INTRODUCTION must change if progress is to be made in the treat- ment of dilated cardiomyopathy in this patient pop- uchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a ulation.17 Sensitive and specific diagnostic tests to common genetic disease that affects approx- detect early and subtle manifestations of cardiac dys- imately 1 in 3000 males. Becker muscular D function are not available currently and need to be dystrophy (BMD) is less common, affecting approx- developed. Echocardiography, which remains the imately 1 in 30 000 males.1 Both diseases result from a mutation in the gene located at Xp21,2,3 which standard noninvasive diagnostic modality for car- encodes dystrophin, a sarcolemmal protein abun- diomyopathy, is often limited in patients with DMD dant in skeletal and cardiac muscle cells.4 Dystro- and BMD by scoliosis and poor echocardiographic phin is typically absent in DMD and reduced or acoustic windows. abnormal in size in BMD.5 Cardiac rhythm abnormalities are frequent and play a significant role in morbidity and mortality in DMD typically is diagnosed between the ages of 3 18 and 7 years and is characterized by progressive skel- both DMD and BMD. Electrocardiographic abnor- etal muscle weakness with loss of ambulation be- malities can be seen early in the disease, with an 16 tween the ages of 7 and 13 years. The BMD pheno- incidence of 26% by 6 years of age. Autonomic type is clinically more heterogeneous with initial dysfunction with increased mean baseline heart rate presentation in the teenage years. Death secondary to and decreased rate variability has been well de- 19–21 cardiac or respiratory failure typically occurs in the scribed. However, the significance of these find- second or third decade in DMD and in the fourth or ings relative to the course of the cardiomyopathy has fifth decade in BMD. Cardiac disease in both DMD not been well established. and BMD manifests as a dilated cardiomyopathy Treatment paradigms to date have been individu- and/or cardiac arrhythmia.6,7 End-stage cardiac dis- ally based and rely on evidence acquired from other patient populations. Cardiac dysfunction is treated by using standard heart-failure strategies that remain suboptimal. Unfortunately, there is minimal evidence- doi:10.1542/peds.2005-2448 PEDIATRICS (ISSN 0031 4005). Copyright © 2005 by the American Acad- based literature regarding the use and effect of an- emy of Pediatrics. giotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or ␤-blockers Downloaded from www.aappublications.org/news PEDIATRICSby guest on September Vol. 11624, 2021 No. 6 December 2005 1569 on morbidity and mortality in this patient popula- Postoperative maintenance of fluid balance and car- tion.22–24 Prospective clinical trials are required to diopulmonary monitoring is critical for this patient evaluate the effectiveness of these treatments in this population. group of patients. Strategies that target the unique Nutrition is also critical in the care and manage- molecular etiology of heart failure in dystrophin- ment of patients with DMD, because they require deficient individuals need to be developed if the regular monitoring to maintain ideal body weight. cardiovascular care of patients with DMD and BMD Obesity and undernutrition are known to occur in is to improve. this group of patients.41,42 Both have been shown to The cardiovascular system must also be consid- be detrimental to cardiac health in other popula- ered when addressing the diverse medical and sur- tions,43 although there is a paucity of literature re- gical issues faced by patients with DMD and BMD. garding the effect of nutrition on cardiovascular The administration of systemic glucocorticoids is be- health in patients with DMD. Glucocorticoid-in- coming standard treatment for the skeletal muscle duced obesity and osteoporosis will further nutri- disease.25–27 In addition to the potential to improve tionally affect the patient with DMD. or stabilize cardiac function, there is the potential to Patients with DMD and BMD may also be at in- increase long-term cardiovascular risk28,29 including creased risk of thromboembolic events secondary to but not limited to the development of obesity and the prothrombotic consequences of muscle degener- systemic arterial hypertension. Glucocorticoid treat- ation.44–48 This risk is amplified in the presence of ment also may result in the development of left cardiac dysfunction. As a result, anticoagulation ventricular hypertrophy, with the potential of alter- therapy should be considered in this subgroup of ing cardiac function.30 At present, there is no uni- patients. However, there is minimal evidence-based formly accepted or standardized treatment protocol literature regarding the use and effect of anticoagu- for glucocorticoid use.31,32 Research is required to lation therapy in these patients. determine the cardiovascular effects of long-term Optimal cardiac care cannot be accomplished glucocorticoid use in patients with DMD. without maximizing pulmonary function.49 Hy- To manage the musculoskeletal complications in poventilation and respiratory muscle weakness are DMD and BMD, orthopedic surgical procedures are known to increase wall stress.50 Aggressive pulmo- frequently recommended.33,34 The patient with DMD nary care not only affects morbidity and mortality as or BMD faces unique risks not only in the operating a result of reducing respiratory complications but room but also in the postoperative period.35,36 Poten- also functions to decrease afterload and left ventric- tial complications include respiratory failure, pulmo- ular wall stress, resulting in improved cardiac out- nary aspiration, atelectasis or collapse of major lung put. In 2004, the American Thoracic Society released segments, postoperative pneumonia, congestive a consensus statement regarding the respiratory care heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. The patient of patients with DMD.9 These recommendations with DMD or BMD often has a limited ability to should be considered carefully. increase cardiac output in response to stress and thus Female carriers of DMD or BMD are also at risk of is at risk of inadequate oxygen delivery. Blood loss developing cardiomyopathy. The age of onset of clin- and fluid shifts during surgical procedures further ically significant disease is unclear but is thought to compromise cardiac output and adequate oxygen be in the adult years.51 Cardiac involvement in the delivery.37 As a result, it is essential that baseline carrier can be variable, ranging from asymptomatic cardiac and pulmonary function be evaluated before to severe heart failure necessitating cardiac trans- any major surgical procedure. Patients with DMD or plantation.52,53 Carriers, therefore, require periodic BMD have additional operative risks. Succinylcho- cardiovascular screening.54,55 In addition, there is a line chloride should be avoided because of its predi- critical need to research the natural history and out- lection to cause a hyperkalemic response, which is come of therapies in female carriers. different from malignant hyperthermia but is poten- Mutations in dystrophin
Recommended publications
  • This Letter Is for Families with Variant(S) in the Titin Gene, Also
    This letter is for families with variant(s) in the Titin gene , also abbreviated as TTN . Changes in the Titin protein may cause muscle weakness as well as heart problems . You will need to discuss with your doctor if and how your Titin variant affects your health. What is Titin? Titin is a very large protein. It’s huge! In fact, Titin is the largest protein in the human body. The Titin protein is located in each of the individual muscle cells in our bodies. It is also found in the heart, which is a very specialized muscle. Muscles need Titin in order to work and move. You can learn more about Titin here: http://titinmyopathy.com . What is a Titin Myopathy? In medical terms, “Myo” refers to muscle and “-opathy” at the end of a word means that the word describes a medical disease or condition. So “myopathy” is a medical illness involving muscles. Myopathies result in muscle weakness and muscle fatigue. “Titin Myopathy” is a specific category of myopathy where the muscle problem is caused by a change in the Titin gene and subsequently the protein. What is a Titin-related Dystrophy? A Titin dystrophy is a muscle disorder where muscle cells break down. Dystrophies generally result in weakness that gets worse over time. A common heart problem caused by variants in the Titin gene is known as dilated cardiomyopathy. Sometimes other heart issues are also present in people with changes in their Titin gene. It is a good idea to have a checkup from a heart doctor if you have even a single variant in the Titin gene.
    [Show full text]
  • The Myotonic Dystrophies: Diagnosis and Management Chris Turner,1 David Hilton-Jones2
    Review J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry: first published as 10.1136/jnnp.2008.158261 on 22 February 2010. Downloaded from The myotonic dystrophies: diagnosis and management Chris Turner,1 David Hilton-Jones2 1Department of Neurology, ABSTRACT asymptomatic relatives as well as prenatal and National Hospital for Neurology There are currently two clinically and molecularly defined preimplantation diagnosis can also be performed.7 and Neurosurgery, London, UK 2Department of Clinical forms of myotonic dystrophy: (1) myotonic dystrophy Neurology, The Radcliffe type 1 (DM1), also known as ‘Steinert’s disease’; and Anticipation Infirmary, Oxford, UK (2) myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2), also known as DMPK alleles greater than 37 CTG repeats in length proximal myotonic myopathy. DM1 and DM2 are are unstable and may expand in length during meiosis Correspondence to progressive multisystem genetic disorders with several and mitosis. Children of a parent with DM1 may Dr C Turner, Department of Neurology, National Hospital for clinical and genetic features in common. DM1 is the most inherit repeat lengths considerably longer than those Neurology and Neurosurgery, common form of adult onset muscular dystrophy whereas present in the transmitting parent. This phenomenon Queen Square, London WC1N DM2 tends to have a milder phenotype with later onset of causes ‘anticipation’, which is the occurrence of 3BG, UK; symptoms and is rarer than DM1. This review will focus increasing disease severity and decreasing age of onset [email protected] on the clinical features, diagnosis and management of in successive generations. The presence of a larger Received 1 December 2008 DM1 and DM2 and will briefly discuss the recent repeat leads to earlier onset and more severe disease Accepted 18 December 2008 advances in the understanding of the molecular and causes the more severe phenotype of ‘congenital’ pathogenesis of these diseases with particular reference DM1 (figure 2).8 9 A child with congenital DM 1 to new treatments using gene therapy.
    [Show full text]
  • Consensus-Based Care Recommendations for Adults with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1
    Consensus-based Care Recommendations for Adults with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 I Consensus-based Care Recommendations for Adults with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 Due to the multisystemic nature of this disease, the studies and rigorous evidence needed to drive the creation of an evidence-based guideline for the clinical care of adult myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) patients are not currently available for all affected body systems and symptoms. In order to improve and standardize care for this disorder now, more than 65 leading myotonic dystrophy (DM) clinicians in Western Europe, the UK, Canada and the US joined in a process started in Spring 2015 and concluded in Spring 2017 to create the Consensus-based Care Recommendations for Adults with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1. The project was organized and supported by the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF). A complete list of authors and an overview of the process is available in Addendum 1. A complete reading list for each of the study area sections is available in Addendum 2. An Update Policy has been adopted for this document and will direct a systematic review of literature and appropriate follow up every three years. Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation staff will provide logistical and staff support for the update process. A Quick Reference Guide extrapolated from the Consensus-based Care Recommendations is available here http://www.myotonic.org/clinical-resources For more information, visit myotonic.org. Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation 1 www.myotonic.org Table of Contents Life-threatening symptoms
    [Show full text]
  • Skeletal Muscle Channelopathies: a Guide to Diagnosis and Management
    Review Pract Neurol: first published as 10.1136/practneurol-2020-002576 on 9 February 2021. Downloaded from Skeletal muscle channelopathies: a guide to diagnosis and management Emma Matthews ,1,2 Sarah Holmes,3 Doreen Fialho2,3,4 1Atkinson- Morley ABSTRACT in the case of myotonia may be precipi- Neuromuscular Centre, St Skeletal muscle channelopathies are a group tated by sudden or initial movement, George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, of rare episodic genetic disorders comprising leading to falls and injury. Symptoms are UK the periodic paralyses and the non- dystrophic also exacerbated by prolonged rest, espe- 2 Department of Neuromuscular myotonias. They may cause significant morbidity, cially after preceding physical activity, and Diseases, UCL, Institute of limit vocational opportunities, be socially changes in environmental temperature.4 Neurology, London, UK 3Queen Square Centre for embarrassing, and sometimes are associated Leg muscle myotonia can cause particular Neuromuscular Diseases, with sudden cardiac death. The diagnosis is problems on public transport, with falls National Hospital for Neurology often hampered by symptoms that patients may caused by the vehicle stopping abruptly and Neurosurgery, London, UK 4Department of Clinical find difficult to describe, a normal examination or missing a destination through being Neurophysiology, King's College in the absence of symptoms, and the need unable to rise and exit quickly enough. Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to interpret numerous tests that may be These difficulties can limit independence, London, UK normal or abnormal. However, the symptoms social activity, choice of employment Correspondence to respond very well to holistic management and (based on ability both to travel to the Dr Emma Matthews, Atkinson- pharmacological treatment, with great benefit to location and to perform certain tasks) and Morley Neuromuscular Centre, quality of life.
    [Show full text]
  • Evidence-Based Guideline: Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Management Of
    Evidence-based Guideline: Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Management of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Report of the Guideline Development, Dissemination, and Implementation Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology and the Practice Issues Review Panel of the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine Rabi Tawil, MD, FAAN1; John T. Kissel, MD, FAAN2; Chad Heatwole, MD, MS-CI3; Shree Pandya, PT, DPT, MS4; Gary Gronseth, MD, FAAN5; Michael Benatar, MBChB, DPhil, FAAN6 (1) MDA Neuromuscular Disease Clinic, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY (2) Department of Neurology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (3) Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY (4) Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY (5) Department of Neurology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS (6) Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL Correspondence to: American Academy of Neurology [email protected] 1 Approved by the Guideline Development, Dissemination, and Implementation Subcommittee on July 23, 2014; by the AAN Practice Committee on October 20, 2014; by the AANEM Board of Directors on [date]; and by the AANI Board of Directors on [date]. This guideline was endorsed by the FSH Society on December 18, 2014. 2 AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS Rabi Tawil: study concept and design, acquisition of data, analysis or interpretation of data, drafting/revising the manuscript, critical revision of the manuscript for important intellectual content, study supervision. John Kissel: acquisition of data, analysis or interpretation of data, critical revision of the manuscript for important intellectual content.
    [Show full text]
  • Myopathies Infosheet
    The University of Chicago Genetic Services Laboratories 5841 S. Maryland Ave., Rm. G701, MC 0077, Chicago, Illinois 60637 Toll Free: (888) UC GENES (888) 824 3637 Local: (773) 834 0555 FAX: (773) 702 9130 [email protected] dnatesting.uchicago.edu CLIA #: 14D0917593 CAP #: 18827-49 Gene tic Testing for Congenital Myopathies/Muscular Dystrophies Congenital Myopathies Congenital myopathies are typically characterized by the presence of specific structural and histochemical features on muscle biopsy and clinical presentation can include congenital hypotonia, muscle weakness, delayed motor milestones, feeding difficulties, and facial muscle involvement (1). Serum creatine kinase may be normal or elevated. Heterogeneity in presenting symptoms can occur even amongst affected members of the same family. Congenital myopathies can be divided into three main clinicopathological defined categories: nemaline myopathy, core myopathy and centronuclear myopathy (2). Nemaline Myopathy Nemaline Myopathy is characterized by weakness, hypotonia and depressed or absent deep tendon reflexes. Weakness is typically proximal, diffuse or selective, with or without facial weakness and the diagnostic hallmark is the presence of distinct rod-like inclusions in the sarcoplasm of skeletal muscle fibers (3). Core Myopathy Core Myopathy is characterized by areas lacking histochemical oxidative and glycolytic enzymatic activity on histopathological exam (2). Symptoms include proximal muscle weakness with onset either congenitally or in early childhood. Bulbar and facial weakness may also be present. Patients with core myopathy are typically subclassified as either having central core disease or multiminicore disease. Centronuclear Myopathy Centronuclear Myopathy (CNM) is a rare muscle disease associated with non-progressive or slowly progressive muscle weakness that can develop from infancy to adulthood (4, 5).
    [Show full text]
  • Clinical Approach to the Floppy Child
    THE FLOPPY CHILD CLINICAL APPROACH TO THE FLOPPY CHILD The floppy infant syndrome is a well-recognised entity for paediatricians and neonatologists and refers to an infant with generalised hypotonia presenting at birth or in early life. An organised approach is essential when evaluating a floppy infant, as the causes are numerous. A detailed history combined with a full systemic and neurological examination are critical to allow for accurate and precise diagnosis. Diagnosis at an early stage is without a doubt in the child’s best interest. HISTORY The pre-, peri- and postnatal history is important. Enquire about the quality and quantity of fetal movements, breech presentation and the presence of either poly- or oligohydramnios. The incidence of breech presentation is higher in fetuses with neuromuscular disorders as turning requires adequate fetal mobility. Documentation of birth trauma, birth anoxia, delivery complications, low cord R van Toorn pH and Apgar scores are crucial as hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy remains MB ChB, (Stell) MRCP (Lond), FCP (SA) an important cause of neonatal hypotonia. Neonatal seizures and an encephalo- Specialist pathic state offer further proof that the hypotonia is of central origin. The onset of the hypotonia is also important as it may distinguish between congenital and Department of Paediatrics and Child Health aquired aetiologies. Enquire about consanguinity and identify other affected fam- Faculty of Health Sciences ily members in order to reach a definitive diagnosis, using a detailed family Stellenbosch University and pedigree to assist future genetic counselling. Tygerberg Children’s Hospital CLINICAL CLUES ON NEUROLOGICAL EXAMINATION Ronald van Toorn obtained his medical degree from the University of Stellenbosch, There are two approaches to the diagnostic problem.
    [Show full text]
  • Congenital Muscular Dystrophy with Characteristic Radiological Findings Similar to Those with Fukuyama Congenital Muscular Dystrophy
    Case Report Congenital muscular dystrophy with characteristic radiological findings similar to those with Fukuyama congenital muscular dystrophy Ajay Garg, Sheffali Gulati*, Vipul Gupta, Veena Kalra* Departments of Neuroradiology and *Pediatrics, AIIMS, New Delhi, India. Fukuyama congenital muscular dystrophy (FCMD) is the quired social smile at 2 months, partial head control at 8 months, started sitting with support at 9 months and sitting without support most common congenital muscular dystrophy in Japan and at 18 months. He had no seizures. On examination, he had head lag there are isolated reports of non-Japanese patients with and hypotonia. Power was 3/5 in all limbs. Deep tendon jerks were FCMD. We report an Indian patient with congenital muscu- not elicitable. There was no muscle hypertrophy. The ophthalmic lar dystrophy and characteristic radiological findings similar examination, visual evoked potentials, motor nerve conduction stud- to those with FCMD. ies and EEG were normal. Electromyography showed a myopathic pattern. Serum creatine kinase was elevated at 2970 U/l (normal Key Words: Fukuyama congenital muscular dystrophy, con- 24-190 U/l). genital muscular dystrophy Cranial MRI revealed disorganized cerebellar folia with multiple cysts within vermis and cerebellar hemispheres (Figures 1a and 1b). There was marked pontine, and inferior vermian hypoplasia and fused midbrain colliculi (Figure 2a). The frontal lobes had shallow sulci Introduction and a bizarre pattern of the sulci parallel to each other without per- pendicular sulci (Figures 2a and 2b). There was ventriculomegaly and abnormal increased signal in periventricular white matter. The Congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD) is a heterogeneous corpus callosum had a bizarre configuration, though was not hypo- group of disorders characterized by muscular hypotonia of plastic.
    [Show full text]
  • Blueprint Genetics Comprehensive Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy Panel
    Comprehensive Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy Panel Test code: NE0701 Is a 125 gene panel that includes assessment of non-coding variants. In addition, it also includes the maternally inherited mitochondrial genome. Is ideal for patients with distal myopathy or a clinical suspicion of muscular dystrophy. Includes the smaller Nemaline Myopathy Panel, LGMD and Congenital Muscular Dystrophy Panel, Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy Panel and Collagen Type VI-Related Disorders Panel. About Comprehensive Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy Muscular dystrophies and myopathies are a complex group of neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disorders that typically result in progressive muscle weakness. The age of onset, affected muscle groups and additional symptoms depend on the type of the disease. Limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) is a group of disorders with atrophy and weakness of proximal limb girdle muscles, typically sparing the heart and bulbar muscles. However, cardiac and respiratory impairment may be observed in certain forms of LGMD. In congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD), the onset of muscle weakness typically presents in the newborn period or early infancy. Clinical severity, age of onset, and disease progression are highly variable among the different forms of LGMD/CMD. Phenotypes overlap both within CMD subtypes and among the congenital muscular dystrophies, congenital myopathies, and LGMDs. Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD) is a condition that affects mainly skeletal muscle and heart. Usually it presents in early childhood with contractures, which restrict the movement of certain joints – most often elbows, ankles, and neck. Most patients also experience slowly progressive muscle weakness and wasting, beginning with the upper arm and lower leg muscles and progressing to shoulders and hips.
    [Show full text]
  • Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy
    Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy Condition: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disease that causes progressive muscle weakness and damage. Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) is the less severe, and less common, form of the disease. Background: Signs of DMD generally appear before age six; BMD usually appears after eight years of age. Both conditions affect skeletal muscle and heart muscle. With DMD, muscle weakness worsens more rapidly, and, by adolescence, patients usually require a wheelchair. BMD is milder and worsens more slowly. Currently, there is no cure for either DMD or BMD, but there are treatments for patients with certain genetic mutations. Risk Factors: DMD and BMD occur almost exclusively in boys because the abnormal genes occur on the X chromosome. Boys have one X chromosome (from their mother) and one Y chromosome (from their father). Girls have one X chromosome from each parent, so the normal X chromosome silences the X chromosome that carries the mutation. These girls do have a 50% chance of passing the abnormal X chromosome to her children. However, mutations can occur spontaneously on the X chromosome. History and Symptoms: The disease may first show up in toddlers with abnormal walking or delayed milestones. Weakness in the legs usually appears first, causing more problems with walking and getting up from the floor. Over time, weakness will also affect the arms. As the disease progresses, it can cause damage to the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), which can lead to irregular heartbeat, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Decreased muscle range of motion (contracture) and scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine) are also commonly seen.
    [Show full text]
  • Muscular Dystrophies: What the Radiologist Should Know
    Muscular Dystrophies: What the radiologist should know J. Carmen Timberlake, MD; Kristina Siddall, MD; Christopher Bang, DO; Marat Bakman, MD; Gwy Suk Seo, MD; Johnny UV Monu, MD Department of Imaging Sciences University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY Presentation material is for education purposes only. All rights reserved. ©2006 URMC Radiology Page 1 of 39 Muscular Dystrophies: Introduction •! The muscular dystrophies are –! a group of inherited, progressive muscle disorders –! caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins required for normal muscle function. •! Biopsy reveals fiber degeneration –! this manifests clinically as weakness. Presentation material is for education purposes only. All rights reserved. ©2006 URMC Radiology Page 2 of 39 Muscular Dystrophies: Introduction •! Role of imaging in diagnosis and management –! Historically, diagnosis and evaluation of disease progression depend on clinical, pathologic, and biochemical parameters. –! Imaging has not been used for primary diagnosis or for routine follow-up evaluation. –! MRI, however, has a potential role in the work up, management, and study of muscular dystrophies Presentation material is for education purposes only. All rights reserved. ©2006 URMC Radiology Page 3 of 39 Muscular Dystrophies: Introduction Teaching points: 1.! Review of spectrum of muscular dystrophies. 2.! Review patterns of inheritance, pathophysiology of disease, clinical manifestations, and clinical management. 3.! Review radiologic findings in muscular dystrophies, with emphasis on
    [Show full text]
  • Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2
    4 Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2 How will having DM2 affect my life? Each person responds differently to DM2. Outcome depends on the severity of your condition. You will visit the Neuromuscular and Neurometabolic Centre, where the health care team will plan your treatment and provide your care. Living with a chronic condition can be challenging and emotional. Here are some ideas for living well with a chronic disease. Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2 Educate yourself • Learn as much as you can about the disease and how to manage What is myotonic dystrophy type 2? symptoms. If you have questions, ask your health care providers. Myotonic dystrophy is a medical term for a condition that affects This will help you make informed decisions about your care. muscle function. The term myotonic comes from several words in Greek: Take part in your care • ‘myo’ means muscles (muscles are affected) • Work closely with your health care providers, as a team. • ‘tonia’ meaning tension (the tension of the muscle is affected) Follow your treatment plan. Keep track of your symptoms and your response to treatment. Tell your health care providers how you are doing. Myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2) is one of several types of muscular dystrophy. Take care of yourself • Learn to listen to your body. Rest and conserve your energy when you feel tired. When you are active, go at your own pace. What are the signs and symptoms of DM2? Muscle weakness Notes and questions Each person responds differently to the disorder. Symptoms often do not appear until after 20 years of age.
    [Show full text]