Definition of Muscular dystrophy, Emery-Dreifuss
Muscular dystrophy, Emery-Dreifuss: A form of muscular dystrophy (MD) that begins in childhood or the teen years. It is a slowly progressing disorder that begins in the upper arms or upper legs. Contractures of the limbs are common, as are serious heart problems. Emery-Dreifuss MD is caused by mutation in the gene that encodes emerin on the X chromosome. Although only males have the muscle problems associated with Emery-Dreifuss MD, females may have the heart problems. Therefore, female relatives of males with this disorder should have regular heart checkups.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11687
Last Editorial Review: 3/19/2012
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