What Is Muscular Dystrophy?
1. Duchenne
This form of muscular dystrophy appears in male children between the ages of 2 and 6. Beginning with the muscles of the pelvis, upper arms, and legs, weakness increases as the disease progresses. Walking becomes difficult as the muscles continue to waste away. Wheelchair use is common by the age of 12.
Cognitive difficulties may also be present. Breathing and heart problems can appear and progress quickly. In the years following onset, the limbs and spine become deformed. People with this form of MD do not usually live past their early 20s.
