What is muscular dystrophy (MD)?
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of inherited diseases that are characterized by weak muscles that get progressively weaker with age.
MD mainly affects the skeletal muscles. In some types of MD, the heart muscle is affected. In others, mental ability may be reduced. In late stage MD, fat and connective tissue can replace muscle fibers.
There are different types of MD. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common and most serious form of MD. DMD mainly affects boys and appears before five years of age. DMD is characterized by muscle wasting and poor walking ability. Most boys with DMD end up completely dependent on wheelchairs by 13 years of age and will eventually have difficulty breathing. Other forms of MD can be much less severe.
There is no cure for MD, but medications and therapy can improve your child's quality of life.