Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: the Heart of the Matter

Abstract

Purpose of review: Duchenne muscular dystrophy is one of many neuromuscular disorders, but it frequently causes severe disability early in life and early death. Cardiac involvement is an important cause of morbidity and mortality.

Recent findings: Heart disease in Duchenne muscular dystrophy can include a cardiomyopathy leading to end-stage heart failure along with associated supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias. This article reviews the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in Duchenne muscular dystrophy as well as emerging therapies.

Keywords: Cardiomyopathy; Duchenne muscular dystrophy; Heart failure; Neuromuscular.