In addition to analyzing the symptoms and clinical history, the doctor will perform a physical examination and request a blood test to verify the values of creatine phosphokinase, which may indicate an alteration in the muscle fibers, which most of the time triggers dystrophy.
Also, the doctor will perform genetic tests, an electromyogram, and a muscle tissue biopsy to analyze the levels of dystrophin, which is the protein that gradually stops being synthesized in patients with the disease. A cardiac and respiratory evaluation will also be necessary.
Muscular dystrophy is incurable, but some therapies help reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life of those affected. At the beginning of the disease, the intake of anti-inflammatory drugs with steroids helps reduce fatigue, increase motor activity, and eliminate respiratory problems.
In the event of cardiac involvement, the doctor will analyze whether it is advisable to use angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors to reduce symptoms or perform surgery to implant a pacemaker.
In later phases, when difficulties in respiratory function occur, non-invasive mechanical ventilation therapy may be required.
In more extreme situations, a tracheotomy. Secondary musculoskeletal conditions are treated with splints, braces, orthopedic aids, physical therapy, and nutritional and psychological counseling.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we offer health care services with the highest quality and safety, from the prevention, diagnosis, timely treatment, and monitoring of infectious, respiratory, endocrinological, dermatological, rheumatic, nephrological, gastrointestinal, and hematological pathologies of both chronic-degenerative diseases and acute conditions, through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary model.
