Spinal muscular atrophy

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Superficial anterior muscles

Werdnig-Hoffmann disease

There is no treatment for the progressive weakness caused by the disease. Supportive care is important. Attention must be paid to the respiratory system, because affected people have difficulty clearing secretions. Respiratory complications are common.

Physiotherapy is important to prevent contractures and scoliosis. Bracing may be necessary.

The most severe form of spinal muscular atrophy is fatal early on. The less severe form is compatible with a longer lifespan. However, progressive weakness and debility are present in all forms.

• Contractures
• Scoliosis
• Respiratory infections
• Aspiration

Call your health care provider if your child appears weak, has difficulty feeding, or develops any other symptoms of spinal muscular atrophy. Breathing difficulty can rapidly become an emergency condition.

Review Date: 09/10/2006
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.