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Peripheral neuropathy in myotonic dystrophy type 1
Author(s) -
Hermans Mieke C. E.,
Faber Catharina G.,
Vanhoutte Els K.,
Bakkers Mayienne,
De Baets Marc H.,
de DieSmulders Christine E. M.,
Merkies Ingemar S. J.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
journal of the peripheral nervous system
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1529-8027
pISSN - 1085-9489
DOI - 10.1111/j.1529-8027.2011.00313.x
Subject(s) - medicine , subclinical infection , myotonic dystrophy , peripheral neuropathy , peripheral , balance (ability) , reflex , neurological examination , cohort , nerve conduction study , physical medicine and rehabilitation , nerve conduction , surgery , endocrinology , diabetes mellitus
Myotonic dystrophy 1 (DM1) is characterized by a wide range of clinical features. We aimed to verify the presence of peripheral nerve involvement in a large cohort of DM1 patients and to determine clinical consequences. A total of 93 patients underwent detailed neurological examination and nerve conduction studies. Additionally, balance impairment was assessed with the Berg Balance Scale and health status was evaluated with the SF‐36 health survey. Sensory symptoms were not reported and mild sensory signs were found in six patients. Electrophysiological abnormalities consistent with a diagnosis of neuropathy were found in 16 patients (17%). Peripheral nerve involvement was significantly associated with decreased muscle strength (p = 0.001) and absence of Achilles‐tendon reflexes (p = 0.003), but not with age or duration of neuromuscular symptoms. It had no significant effect on balance, mental or physical health. In conclusion, peripheral nerve involvement may be one of the multisystemic manifestations of DM1, but is usually subclinical. Other causes should be excluded when sensory symptoms or signs are severe.