Multivoxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is a hereditary disorder that causes progressive muscle wasting. This study evaluates the use of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹ H MRS) as a biomarker of muscle strength and function in FSHD.

Thirty-six individuals with FSHD and 15 healthy controls underwent multivoxel ¹ H MRS of a cross-section of the mid-thigh. Concentrations of creatine, intramyocellular and extramyocellular lipids, and trimethylamine (TMA)-containing compounds in skeletal muscle were calculated. Metabolite concentrations for individuals with FSHD were compared with those of controls. The relationship between metabolite concentrations and muscle strength was also examined.

The TMA/creatine (Cr) ratio in individuals with FSHD was reduced compared with controls. The TMA/Cr ratio in the hamstrings also showed a moderate linear correlation with muscle strength.

¹ H MRS offers a potential method of detecting early muscle pathology in FSHD prior to the development of fat infiltration. Muscle Nerve 57: 958-963, 2018.