Distal muscular dystrophy
Distal Muscular Dystrophy (pronunciation: dis-tal mus-cu-lar dys-tro-phy) is a group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive weakness and wasting of the muscles that control movement in the hands, feet, lower arms, and lower legs.
Etymology
The term "Distal Muscular Dystrophy" is derived from the Latin word distalis meaning "distant", and the Greek words mus meaning "muscle", and dystrophy meaning "wasting away".
Types
There are several types of Distal Muscular Dystrophy, including:
- Miyoshi myopathy
- Welander distal myopathy
- Hereditary inclusion body myopathy
- Nonaka myopathy
- Gowers-Laing distal myopathy
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Distal Muscular Dystrophy include:
- Weakness and wasting of the muscles in the hands, feet, lower arms, and lower legs
- Difficulty with fine motor skills
- Trouble walking or running
- Muscle cramps
- Muscle stiffness
Causes
Distal Muscular Dystrophy is caused by mutations in certain genes that affect the structure and function of the muscles. These mutations are usually inherited in an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive manner.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Distal Muscular Dystrophy is based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. Additional tests may include:
Treatment
There is currently no cure for Distal Muscular Dystrophy. Treatment is focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Use of assistive devices
- Medications to manage symptoms
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Distal muscular dystrophy
- Wikipedia's article - Distal muscular dystrophy
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