Duchenne affects only males, with rare exceptions. Becker muscular dystrophy , with the same genetic cause, follows a somewhat milder clinical course, with later development of weakness and lesser degrees of functional loss. Prevention Genetic counseling is advised if there is a family history of the disease. Duchenne muscular dystrophy results in rapidly progressive loss of function. Typically children with Duchenne lose the ability to walk between 9 and 12 years of age.
Infections can lead to death due to poor respiratory function.
Assisted ventilation may be used to improve respiratory mechanics. Cardiac function can also be affected. Click here for detailed information on diagnosing DMD and sending in samples for molecular diagnostics. There is no known treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Treatment is palliative, aimed at managing the symptoms in an effort to optimize the quality of life.