Inherited and Endocrine Myopathies

What are inherited and endocrine myopathies?
The word myopathy means “disease of muscle.” More specifically, myopathies are diseases that cause problems with the tone and contraction of skeletal muscles (muscles that control voluntary movements.)
Inherited myopathies have a genetic basis, meaning they can be passed from parent to child.
Endocrine myopathies are not inherited and result from abnormal activity of the thyroid gland.

What are the symptoms of inherited and endocrine myopathies?

Congenital (present at birth) inheritable myopathies can cause severe, general muscle weakness that complicates basic activities like swallowing and breathing. Other inheritable myopathies cause episodes of muscle weakness or stiffness (myotonia) that are milder and more temporary in nature.
Symptoms of endocrine myopathies include weakness and atrophy (shrinking) of the muscles around the shoulders and hips, muscle stiffness, cramps, slowed reflexes, and in severe cases, muscle breakdown.

What causes inherited and endocrine myopathies?

In the inherited myopathies, genetic mutations cause defects in various proteins necessary for muscle tone and contraction. In endocrine myopathies, symptoms result from too much or too little hormone production from the thyroid gland.

What is the progression of inherited and endocrine myopathies?

Myopathies usually don’t cause muscles to die but keep them from working properly. Myopathies are usually nonprogressive — that is, a myopathy usually doesn’t grow worse over a person’s lifetime. In fact, some children with myopathies gain strength as they grow older.

What is the status of research on inherited and endocrine myopathies?

MDA-supported scientists have made great strides in the last decade in identifying the genetic mutations that are at the root of several inherited myopathies. Researchers are building on this knowledge to develop treatments and therapies for these diseases.

"Don't allow your disABILITY to shut you out of life; your request for Access has been Granted"

Be on the lookout for my new highly anticipated book; “Don’t Let the 4 Wheels F.O.O.L. You”!!! If you have ever felt as though society has counted you out! You won’t want to miss this inspirational road map to success!