How does a person get DMD?
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern. Males have only one copy of the X chromosome from their mother and one copy of the Y chromosome from their father. If their X chromosome has a DMD gene mutation, they will have Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
What is the main cause of muscular dystrophy?
In most cases, muscular dystrophy (MD) runs in families. It usually develops after inheriting a faulty gene from one or both parents. MD is caused by mutations (alterations) in the genes responsible for healthy muscle structure and function.
What causes muscular dystrophy DMD?
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by a defective gene for dystrophin (a protein in the muscles). However, it often occurs in people without a known family history of the condition. The condition most often affects boys due to the way the disease is inherited.
What mutations cause DMD?
DMD is caused by mutations of the DMD gene located on the short arm (p) of the X chromosome (Xp21. 2). Chromosomes, which are present in the nucleus of human cells, carry the genetic information for each individual. Human body cells normally have 46 chromosomes.
Can an 80 year old get muscular dystrophy?
It can affect anyone from teenagers to adults in their 40s. Distal muscular dystrophy affects the muscles of the arms, legs, hands, and feet. It usually comes on later in life, between ages 40 and 60.
What is the most serious weakness of DMD?
The symptoms of DMD include progressive weakness and loss (atrophy) of both skeletal and heart muscle. Early signs may include delayed ability to sit, stand, or walk and difficulties learning to speak. Muscle weakness is usually noticeable in early childhood. Most children with DMD use a wheelchair by their early teens.
Why is DMD more common in males?
Males are more likely to have DMD than females. Males and females who are born to a mother who carries the defective gene each have a chance of inheriting the defect. However, girls who inherit the gene will be asymptomatic carriers, and boys will present with symptoms.
How does someone get DMD?
DMD is a genetic disease. Children can either inherit DMD from a parent, or it can be the result of a random genetic mutation. DMD occurs when there is a fault on the dystrophin gene. This is the gene that the body needs to produce a protein called dystrophin, which is essential for maintaining muscle strength and function.
How long can you live with muscular dystrophy?
It is the most common type of muscular dystrophy. The average life expectancy is 26; however, with excellent care, some may live into their 30s or 40s. Gene therapy, as a treatment, is in the early stages of study in humans. Click to see full answer. In respect to this, what is the life expectancy of a child with muscular dystrophy?