In patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, what is a prominent feature of the disease?

In Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a prominent feature of the disease is symmetrical muscle wasting, which occurs due to the degeneration of muscle fibers. As the muscle tissue is progressively replaced with fibrous and fatty tissue, patients experience weakness and atrophy, particularly in proximal muscles such as those in the hips and shoulders. This symmetrical pattern distinguishes DMD from other muscular dystrophies, where muscle wasting may not be as uniform.

The muscle wasting in DMD typically becomes evident in early childhood, often after a period of normal motor development, and it progressively worsens over time. This progression leads to significant functional impairments, as individuals may have difficulty with tasks like climbing stairs or running. Eventually, most individuals with DMD may require the use of a wheelchair.

Understanding the nature of muscle involvement in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, as well as ongoing supportive therapies to manage the disease's impact on mobility and overall quality of life.