What Is Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy is not one condition. It is a broad range of neuromuscular conditions with common elements. There are more than 70 described conditions and more that are not specifically categorised. Many of these conditions occur across a spectrum of severity, so one case of FSHD may not be the same as the next.
In this way, while there are some common elements, each case can have its own individual symptoms and impact on an individual. This is why it is important to obtain a proper diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of muscular dystrophy. This should start with your GP referring you to a neurologist than specialises in neuromuscular conditions.
Diagnosis of muscular dystrophy can include blood tests, muscle biopsy, electromyography, genetic testing and family history.
The Most Common Forms of Muscular Dystrophy are:
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy
- Becker muscular dystrophy
- Congenital muscular dystrophy
- Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy
- Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
- Myotonic dystrophy
- Oculopharangeal muscular dystrophy
- Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy.
