Types of Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy, a group of genetic diseases, is characterized by the gradual muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. Due to this condition, the mutation of genes could affect the production of proteins required to build healthy muscles. Though muscular dystrophy cannot be cured, different medications and therapy treatments can help control or manage the symptoms. Certain genes in the body are responsible for the production of proteins that help protect muscle fiber. When these genes undergo mutation, it leads to muscular dystrophy. Different types of muscular dystrophy are caused owing to the gene mutation involved in that particular form. While many of these mutations can be inherited, some might occur voluntarily in a developing embryo and could then pass on to the other generations. Various therapies or assistive devices can be used for the treatment of muscular dystrophy. The different forms of muscular dystrophy are: 1. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) This is the most common type of muscular dystrophy. While girls can be mildly affected by it, boys are more prone to this disorder. Almost one-third of the boys suffering from this health condition do not have a family history of this condition. This indicates that it might be caused by a spontaneous mutation of genes.