See Also: duchenne muscular dystrophy(medicine)
Duchenne muscular dystrophy(health)
Duchenne dystrophy(medicine)
Muscular dystrophy(health)
muscular dystrophy(dictionary)
Dystrophy, muscular(health)
Muscular dystrophy(medicine)
muscular dystrophy(encyclopedia)
childhood muscular dystrophy(medicine)
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy(health)

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (health)


The best-known form of muscular dystrophy, due to mutation in a gene on the X chromosome that prevents the production of dystrophin, a normal protein in muscle. DMD affects boys and, very rarely, girls. DMD typically appears between the ages of two with weakness in the pelvis and upper limbs, resulting in clumsiness, frequent falling, an unusual gait and general weakness. Some patients also have mild mental retardation. As DMD progresses, a wheelchair may be needed. Most patients with Duchenne MD die in their early twenties because of muscle-based breathing and heart problems. There is no cure for DMD. Current treatment is directed toward symptoms, such as assisting with mobility, preventing scoliosis, and providing pulmonary therapy (respiratory toilet). Gene replacement with dystrophin minigenes is being investigated but no cure appears around the corner.