Becker's muscular dystrophy

Becker's muscular dystrophy (pronunciation: BEK-erz MUS-kyoo-lar dis-TROH-fee) is a genetic disorder that gradually causes muscle weakness and wasting. It is one of nine types of muscular dystrophy.

Etymology

The condition is named after the German doctor, Peter Emil Becker, who first described this variant of muscular dystrophy in the 1950s.

Definition

Becker's muscular dystrophy is a condition characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting. It primarily affects the skeletal muscles, which are used for movement, and the cardiac muscle, leading to cardiomyopathy (heart disease).

Symptoms

Symptoms of Becker's muscular dystrophy typically appear in adolescence or early adulthood and may include difficulty walking, muscle cramps, and fatigue. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience heart-related complications such as arrhythmia and heart failure.

Causes

Becker's muscular dystrophy is caused by mutations in the DMD gene, which is responsible for the production of a protein called dystrophin. Dystrophin is essential for the stability and protection of muscle fibers. In Becker's muscular dystrophy, the DMD gene mutation results in the production of an abnormal version of dystrophin that is partially functional, leading to a milder course of muscle weakness and wasting than is seen in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a related condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Becker's muscular dystrophy involves a combination of clinical examination, family history, and specific tests such as genetic testing to identify mutations in the DMD gene, and muscle biopsy to examine the dystrophin protein.

Treatment

While there is currently no cure for Becker's muscular dystrophy, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may involve physical therapy, use of assistive devices, medication to manage cardiac complications, and in some cases, surgery.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Becker's muscular dystrophy
Wikipedia's article - Becker's muscular dystrophy

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Becker's muscular dystrophy