Duchenne muscular dystrophy typically leads to wheel-chair dependence by which age range?

Duchenne muscular dystrophy typically leads to wheel-chair dependence by which age range?

• A. Highly Variable Depending on Response to Treatment
• B. 7-9 Years
• C. 10-12 Years
• D. 14-16 Years

Answer: (C)

Duchenne muscular dystrophy causes progressive weakness of the proximal leg and hip muscles, so children who can walk typically lose the ability to walk independently in late childhood. The usual window for becoming wheelchair-dependent is around ages 10 to 12, reflecting the natural history of the disease. There is some variability—some may need a chair earlier, around 7–9, or later into the early teens—but 10–12 years is the most representative timeframe.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy causes progressive weakness of the proximal leg and hip muscles, so children who can walk typically lose the ability to walk independently in late childhood. The usual window for becoming wheelchair-dependent is around ages 10 to 12, reflecting the natural history of the disease. There is some variability—some may need a chair earlier, around 7–9, or later into the early teens—but 10–12 years is the most representative timeframe.