By: Kelli Novak & Katelyn Thompson Muscular Dystrophy By: Kelli Novak & Katelyn Thompson

What is it? Muscular dystrophy is a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. Abnormal genes (mutations) interfere with the production of proteins needed to form healthy muscle. Can begin at any stages but mostly childhood, primarily in boys.

Types of Muscular Dystrophy Duchenne muscular dystrophy Half of the people have this variety 1/3 of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy don’t have family history of the disease. The gene involved may be subjected to sudden abnormal change (spontaneous mutation). Signs and symptoms typically appear between ages 2 and 3 Frequent falls Difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position Trouble running or jumping Walking on the toes

Types of Muscular Dystrophy cont. Becker muscular dystrophy Signs and symptoms are similar to those with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, typically milder and progress more slowly. Symptoms generally begin in the teens but may not occur until the mid-20’s or later

Cont. Myotonic also known as Steinert’s disease, is characterized by an inability to relax muscles at will following contractions. Most common form of adult-onset muscular dystrophy. Facial and neck muscles are usually the first to be affected. Facioscapulohumeral (FSHD)- Muscle weakness begins in the face and shoulders. Shoulder blades might stick out like wings when a person with FSHD raises his or her arms. Onset usually occurs in the teenage years but may begin in childhood or as late as age 40

Cont. Congenital- Affects boys and girls as is apparent at birth before age 3. Some forms progress slowely and cause only mild disability, while others progress rapidly and cause severe impairment. Limb-girdle- Hip and shoulder muscles are usually first affected May have difficulty lifting the front part of their foot, so they may trip frequently. Onset usually begins in childhood or the teenage years.

Prognosis? Varies according to the type of progression of the disorder. Some cases may be mild and progress very slowly over a normal lifespan. Some severe muscle weakness can have a functional disability, and loss of the ability to walk. Some children with MD die in infancy while others live into adulthood with only moderate disability.

Progression for MD Physical symptoms present during primary school. Early Phase 5-6 years- Students may display some of the following symptoms Slow moving, difficulty running and climbing steps Falling over frequently Poor balance Becoming tired in the afternoon, and changes in strength during the week Enlarged calf muscles Difficulty participating in PE and other physical activities Weak grip

Cont. Transitional phase 6-12 years of age Walking may become more limited-boys make transition to a wheelchair at the end of this stage Upper body strength declines Trouble keeping up with writing due to decline in skills such as handwriting and grasping Secondary phase- Immobility 12-14 years Significant loss of skeletal muscle strength due to further progression of weakness Student will most likely be in a wheelchair to help them move around classes Will become easily fatigues and tired Require assistance performing activities that involve their arms and legs

Cont. Adult Stage 15-25 + years Tasks that require writing becomes more difficult Respiratory and possible heart complications More visits to the hospital, resulting in frequent absences Ventilation at least overnight is often required Assistance with drinking and eating

Treatment? There is no specific treatment to stop or reverse any form of MD. Treatment may include: Physical therapy Respiratory therapy Speech therapy Orthopedic to slow muscle degeneration Anticonvulsants to control seizures and some muscle activity Immunosuppressant's to delay some damage to dying muscle cells Antibiotics to fight respiratory infections

In the classroom Accommodations for writing in class Note taker, tape recorder, laptop Pencil grips or thicker pencils Make sure the desks or work stations are raised to the child's height Allow extra time in between class or assign them a buddy to carry their books Bryan Arnold’s Story

Organization MDA- Flighting Muscle Disease

References http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases- conditions/muscular-dystrophy/basics/definition/con- 20021240 http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/md/md.htm http://www.mda.org.nz/media/23708/2013%20Duchenn e%20MD%20primary%20manual.pdf