Becker's muscular dystrophy

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Superficial anterior muscles

Benign pseudohypertrophic muscular dystrophy

There is no known cure for Becker's muscular dystrophy. Treatment is aimed at control of symptoms to maximize the quality of life. Some doctors prescribe steroids to help keep a patient walking for as long as possible.

Activity is encouraged. Inactivity (such as bed rest) can worsen the muscle disease. Physical therapy may be helpful to maintain muscle strength. Orthopedic appliances such as braces and wheelchairs may improve mobility and self-care.

Genetic counseling may be advisable. Sons of a man with Becker's muscular dystrophy do not develop the disorder, but daughters may be carriers. The daughters' sons may develop the disorder.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See muscular dystrophy - support group.

Becker's muscular dystrophy results in slowly progressive disability. Death usually occurs in the fifth decade but some patients live to an advanced age.

• Deformities
• Permanent, progressive disability
  • Decreased mobility
  • Decreased ability to care for self
• Mental impairment (varies) -- see mental retardation
• Cardiomyopathy
• Pneumonia or other respiratory infections
• Respiratory failure

Call your health care provider if symptoms that suggest Becker's muscular dystrophy appear.

Call your health care provider if a person with Becker's muscular dystrophy develops new symptoms (particularly fever with cough or breathing difficulties).

Call your health care provider if you are planning a family and Becker's muscular dystrophy has been diagnosed in you or other family members.

Review Date: 08/07/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.