Feeding problems and weight gain in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gastroenterology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive genetic disorder affecting muscle strength.
• Feeding difficulties, gastrointestinal (GI) issues, and weight changes are common concerns in DMD patients.
• Retrospective data collection on these symptoms can be influenced by recall bias.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey feeding difficulties, GI involvement, and weight gain in 118 Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients.
• To analyze the prevalence and age-related progression of these symptoms.
• To identify potential areas for improved clinical management and future research.

Main Methods:

• A dedicated questionnaire was used to collect data from 118 DMD patients.
• Data were analyzed retrospectively, with patients categorized into specific age groups.
• Key outcomes included chewing and swallowing difficulties, choking, aspiration pneumonia, reflux, constipation, and weight status.

Main Results:

• Chewing difficulties and meal duration significantly increased with age.
• Overt choking and swallowing difficulties were infrequent, even in older patients (>18 years).
• Constipation was a prevalent issue (43/118), while aspiration pneumonia (7/118) and reflux (5/118) were rare. Weight below 2 SD increased with age post-18 years.

Conclusions:

• Retrospective surveys suggest overt swallowing abnormalities are infrequent in DMD, despite fears of choking.
• Age-related chewing difficulties and constipation are significant concerns.
• Objective evaluations like videofluoroscopy are needed to detect subtle swallowing issues in DMD.