Bones and muscular dystrophies: what do we know?
Curr Opin Neurol. 2018 Aug 4. doi: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000000603.
Wood CL1,2, Straub V1.
- 1 The John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre and MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University.
- 2 Roslin Institute, Edinburgh University, Edinburgh, UK.
- Sarcopenia (muscle loss) and Vitamin D
- Sarcopenia appears to be not associated with genetics and it occurs in elderly
PURPOSE OF REVIEW:
Muscle and bone are intrinsically linked, and therefore, it is not surprising that many muscular dystrophies are associated with impaired bone health and increased risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporotic fracture is an important and preventable cause of morbidity and mortality. This article will firstly review the general causes of impaired bone health in muscular dystrophies and then focus on the evidence available for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in specific conditions.
RECENT FINDINGS:
With the exception of DMD, there is a paucity of data regarding bone health in muscular dystrophies. However, it appears that in common with all types of muscular dystrophies that cause a significant level of muscle weakness and disability there is an increased risk of falls, fractures and decreased vitamin D levels. A better understanding of the extent of the impaired bone health and underlying causes could help to identify potential new therapeutic agents and aid clinical care.
SUMMARY:
It would be prudent for clinicians to assess fracture risk in their muscular dystrophy patients and if appropriate, arrange surveillance and recommend vitamin D supplementation. Additionally, fracture should be considered in any patient presenting with new-onset bone pain.