Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (Landouzy-Dejerine)

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Landouzy-Dejerine muscular dystrophy


Treatment

There is no known cure for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. Treatments are given to control symptoms and improve the person's quality of life. Activity is encouraged. Inactivity such as bedrest can make the muscle disease worse. Physical therapy may help maintain muscle strength.


Support Groups


Expectations (prognosis)

Disability is often minor. Lifespan is usually not affected.


Complications
  • Decreased mobility
  • Decreased ability to care for self
  • Deformities of the face and shoulders
  • Hearing loss
  • Vision loss (rare)

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this condition develop.

Genetic counseling is recommended for couples with a family history of this condition who wish to have children.



Review Date: 03/09/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine; Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)