Muscular dystrophy
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - G71.0
What is muscular dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. The most common types are Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Becker muscular dystrophy.
Symptoms
Symptoms of muscular dystrophy usually appear in childhood and often involve difficulty climbing stairs, running, jumping, and getting up from the floor. Breathing and swallowing difficulties may develop over time. Muscles tend to weaken progressively, worsening the condition.
Causes
The different types of muscular dystrophy are caused by genetic mutations linked to the X chromosome.
Diagnosis
Muscular dystrophy is diagnosed through DNA analysis. Muscle biopsy tests may also be requested.
Prevention method
Families with a history of muscular dystrophy may consider genetic counseling to assess the risk of passing the disease gene to their children.
Treatment
Treatment for muscular dystrophy typically includes medications to relieve symptoms and delay the loss of muscle function and mass. Physical therapy sessions are important, and in some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend surgery.
Duration
Muscular dystrophy has no cure.
Is it contagious?
Muscular dystrophy is not contagious.
Can it be contracted more than once?
Muscular dystrophy has no cure, so it is diagnosed only once.