Myotonic Dystrophy - FAQs

1.Is it possible for parents to detect myotonic dystrophy before having an affected child?

It is possible to identify if a pregnancy is associated with risk in a family at risk of myotonic dystrophy, by using certain tests done during pregnancy. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), in which a small amount of placental tissue is removed, can be used to extract the DNA for genetic analysis. Cells in the amniotic fluid, derived by amniocentesis can also be tested to identify any gene defect. More sophisticated prenatal diagnostic tests are now available that assist the couple to have an unaffected child. Interested parents can seek the help of genetic counselors in the decision making process.

2.Is myotonic muscular dystrophy contagious?

No, the disease is not contagious. It can however run in families. Individuals belonging to successive generations may be affected.

3.Is arthritis similar to myotonic muscular dystrophy?

No, arthritis and muscular dystrophy are two different diseases. However, some patients with muscular dystrophy can develop arthritis.

Published on Apr 01, 2008
Last Updated on Apr 03, 2008

manubabu Friday, May 15, 2015

My elder brother Mr Chittaranjan Sahoo aged 45 from Keonjhar Dist ,state-Odisha ,India is seriously affected in the Hereditary Mytonica Dystrophy diseases and now treatment in SCB Medical college Odisha under the Dr Prop. Ashok Mallick and Dr. LULUP Ku Sahoo in the Dept of NEUROLOGY . But they told us that their is no such successive treatment for the diseases ? Is it true plz help us and suggest the better treatment

vicky1181 Thursday, July 11, 2013

New to this site. Been diagnosed with mynotonic dystrophy at the age of 10. I was born with this. I was told it hasnt progressed any since the age of 10 but, why do i find it difficult to do the things i used to do? I used to be able to walk long distances, run, excercise. Now at the age of almost 32, i find it extremely difficult to do those things. I can walk but have to stop for frequent breaks. I cant run anymore, nor excericse like i used to. If it hasnt progressed any, why am i having so much trouble doing the things i used to do?

Iqbal_Hussain Saturday, June 22, 2013

My wife had been diagnosed with MD, we are in Delhi and not been able to locate a proper doctor. I will be grateful if somebody can refer a competent doctor to us. I also will be obliged if somebody can guide me if my kids 12 yrs and 4 yrs need a genetic screening

Emmab Wednesday, April 13, 2011

My husband has Myotonic Dystrophy and finds cycling and swimming a lot easier than walking. The cycling he likes better due to his feet and ankles hurting when walking. The swimming was adviced by his doctor as this works most of the body and he is not straining himself.

R-Hughes Monday, April 4, 2011

New to the site: Was told I have it about 6 weeks ago don't know which type yet. was hoping to find out about pain manament as somedays are better than others.It seem to be worst in cold or hot weather the amount of pain is incressed.I walk everyday because I have a little dog and he make me go which is a good thing and it makes it enjoyable.