What is the most common form of childhood muscular dystrophy?

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is recognized as the most common form of childhood muscular dystrophy, primarily affecting boys due to its X-linked recessive inheritance pattern. This condition arises from mutations in the dystrophin gene, which is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of muscle fibers. The absence of functional dystrophin leads to muscle degeneration and weakness, typically manifesting between ages 2 and 6.

The symptoms of DMD progress rapidly, with boys often experiencing difficulty in motor skills such as running or climbing stairs, and they may eventually require wheelchair assistance as the muscle weakness becomes more pronounced. Importantly, early interventions and supportive therapies can play a significant role in managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

Other forms of muscular dystrophy, while also important, do not have the same prevalence in the pediatric population. Becker Muscular Dystrophy, for example, is a milder variant of DMD and typically appears later in life. Myotonic Dystrophy involves different genetic mechanisms and presents distinct clinical features, while Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy includes a range of conditions that primarily affect shoulder and hip muscles.