The muscular dystrophies
BMJ 1998; 317 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.317.7164.991 (Published 10 October 1998) Cite this as: BMJ 1998;317:991
- Alan E H Emery, emeritus professor
- Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter EX2 5DW
- Correspondence to: Professor Emery, 2 Ingleside, Upper West Terrace, Budleigh Salterton, Devon EX9 6NZ
- Accepted 23 June 1998
In 1954 based on their own detailed clinical studies and an extensive review of the earlier literature, Walton and Nattrass1 proposed a new and valuable classification of the muscular dystrophies. Ten years later Walton reviewed advances in the subject in the BMJ. 2 3 Many developments have taken place since then during a period in which there have been important advances in the application of molecular biology to medicine. Using protein studies and gene studies it is possible in the majority of cases to establish the precise diagnosis of a particular type of dystrophy, and thus provide a prognosis as well as genetic counselling and a reliable prenatal diagnosis. These developments could hardly have been imagined 30 years ago.
Summary points
The muscular dystrophies are a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders characterised by progressive muscle wasting and weakness
The genes and the protein products that are responsible for the dystrophies have been identified for most types of dystrophy
Using muscle protein studies and molecular genetic studies in the majority of cases it is possible to establish a precise diagnosis, provide a prognosis, detect preclinical cases, identify carriers, and offer prenatal diagnostic testing
The quality of life of individuals with dystrophy can be much improved by a positive attitude to management which includes respiratory care, physiotherapy, and the surgical correction of contractures
A molecular genetic approach seems to offer the best prospect for developing effective treatment in the future
Methods
This brief review is partly based on a survey of the most recent literature and partly based on nearly 40 years of personal clinical and research experience of these disorders. During the past 10 years the European Neuromuscular Centre, now based in the Netherlands, has encouraged and coordinated both clinical and laboratory studies of dystrophy, many of which have led directly or indirectly to the advances …
Log in
Log in using your username and password
Log in through your institution
Subscribe from £173 *
Subscribe and get access to all BMJ articles, and much more.
* For online subscription
Access this article for 1 day for:
£38 / $45 / €42 (excludes VAT)
You can download a PDF version for your personal record.