In the last phase of Duchenne, there is usually increased difficulty in breathing. Life-threatening heart and lung conditions are more likely. Regular heart and lung monitoring is required, medications are often necessary, and breathing support may be needed.

What is late stage muscular dystrophy?

Stage 2: Late ambulatory stage As the disease progresses, muscle weakness and wasting (atrophy) start to affect the lower legs, forearms, neck, and trunk. Difficulty walking becomes more pronounced at this stage and is often accompanied by fatigue when walking long distances.

What is the end result of muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. In muscular dystrophy, abnormal genes (mutations) interfere with the production of proteins needed to form healthy muscle.

Which is the major cause of death for patients with muscular dystrophy?

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) [1] [2] [3]-a fatal X-linked genetic disorder characterized by progressive skeletal, respiratory, and cardiac muscle weakness.