Myotonic Dystrophy
By: Carolina Gamero
Is there any common names for this disease?
No, there is no common names for myotonic dystrophy, However, there are little names like MMD1 MMD2.
What are the causes of this disorder?
The cause of Myotonic disorder has not been identified, the genetic change responsible has been identified.
Which gene or chrmosome is affected by this disorder?
Chromosome 19 is affected by this disease.
Are there prenatal tests for this disorder? If yes, what are they?
Yes there is a test and it is called electromyography, to help control the disease.
What are the symptoms?
Muscle wasting, weakness, and other saggy facial features.
What population is affected?
30,000 people in the united states are affected by this disease.
How is it inherited?
It is inherited by a dominant gene.
What kind of medical assistance will the affected child need? Will further assistance be needed as the child grows older? What is the long term outlook for the affected child?
The medical assistance is a multidisciplinary team, it also depend on how bad the muscles have weakened, data says the chance of dying is 25% before the age of 18 months but the chances for survival is 50% for the mid 30’s.
Are there any treatments or cures?
There is currently no cure or treatment for myotonic dystrophy.
Could this disorder have been prevented? If so, how?
No, it couldn't been prevented because it's an inherited disorder
Can this individual have children in the future? Will those children be affected?
Yes, but the parent with the dominant trait with the disease will give it to their child.
What is the current status of research of this disorder? Is there a cure coming soon?
There is a cure coming soon, but we do not know how long it will take for them to find a cure.