Genetic counseling is advised when there is a family history of muscular dystrophy. Women may be asymptomatic but still be carriers of the gene for the disorder. Duchenne's muscular dystrophy can be detected with about 95 percent accuracy by genetic studies performed during pregnancy . Symptoms vary with the different types of muscular dystrophy. Certain types, such as Duchenne dystrophy, are ultimately fatal while other types have associated muscle weakness but cause little disability.
Muscle contractures are common.
Shortening of the muscle fibers, fibrosis of the connective tissue and scarring slowly destroy muscle function. Some types of MD involve the heart muscle, causing cardiomyopathy or arrhythmias . A muscle biopsy is the primary test used to confirm the diagnosis. A serum CPK may be elevated. Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms to maximize the quality of life.