DiseaseInjuryNutritionPoison
Special TopicSurgerySymptomsTest
2
4
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Superficial anterior muscles
Superficial anterior muscles
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Muscular dystrophy

Definition:
A group of disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle tissue.

Alternative Names:
Inherited myopathy; MD

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The group of diseases called muscular dystrophies (MD) includes many inherited disorders such as:

These disorders are distinguished from each other by the type of inheritance (sex-linked, dominant gene, recessive gene), the age when symptoms appear, and the types of symptoms that develop. Because these are inherited disorders, risks include a family history of muscular dystrophy.

Lambert-Eaton syndrome and myasthenia gravis also have symptoms that may be similar to early stages of some types of muscular dystrophies, so these disorders must be ruled out when muscular dystrophies are diagnosed.

Review Date: 7/27/2002
Reviewed By: Benjamin D. Roye, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Orthopedics, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com