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Myotonic Dystrophy
Medical Questions » Myotonic Dystrophy
| Name: Myotonic Dystrophy |
| Also known as: Dystrophia Myotonica; Steinert' s Disease |
| Progressive condition in which there is delayed relaxation of muscles after contraction. Age of onset varies from mid teens to middle age. Rarely it may start in infancy. |
Causes of Myotonic Dystrophy
Hereditary disorder affecting muscle cell membranes. Only occurs if both parents are carriers of a defective gene on chromosome 19. |
Symptoms of Myotonic Dystrophy
Inability to release grip, muscle weakness and wasting, difficulty in moving arms and legs. Symptoms start in the face, neck, hands and feet, and slowly move towards the trunk. |
Tests for Myotonic Dystrophy
Diagnosed by muscle biopsy. |
Treatment for Myotonic Dystrophy
Physiotherapy, ankle braces and specific treatments for complications.
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Complications of Myotonic Dystrophy of its treatment
May be associated with cell damage in the heart, eyes (causing cataracts), wasting of the testicles, breathing difficulties, variable bowel habits, worsening mental retardation and confusion, difficulty in swallowing, rosiness and body chemistry disorders. |
Likely Outcome of Myotonic Dystrophy
No cure available. Slowly progressive. Fatal when heart muscles and muscles of breathing become involved. The older the person at onset of symptoms the more slowly the disease progresses. |
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