Most common muscular dystrophy affecting boys, occurring in 6 per 100,000 males. Symptoms typically appear around age four, progressing rapidly. Females with single mutated gene copy show milder symptoms
Smallest of three gluteal muscles located beneath gluteus medius. Arises from ilium between anterior and inferior gluteal lines. Inserts into anterior border of greater trochanter with bursa. May be divided into anterior and posterior parts or send slips
CK catalyzes conversion of creatine to phosphocreatine and ATP. Enzyme exists in three cytosolic and two mitochondrial forms. Normal resting values are between 60 and 400 IU/L
System provides movement using bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and joints. Humans start with over 300 bones, which fuse to 206 in adulthood. Bones provide stability, muscles keep bones in place and enable movement. Cartilage prevents direct bone-to-bone contact
Striated muscle contains sarcomeres, visible bands in microscopic images. There are two types: cardiac muscle (heart) and skeletal muscle (skeleton). Skeletal muscle is wrapped in epimysium, organized into fascicles by perimysium. Cardiac muscle cells are unicellular, connected by intercalated disks
Muscular dystrophy causes progressive weakness and muscle mass loss. Abnormal genes interfere with protein production needed for healthy muscle. No cure exists, but medications and therapy can manage symptoms