A&P Basics BIOL 2404 Case Study: Muscles Dr. Weis
Admission Date:
Discharge Date:
Previous History:
An 8 year old boy first presented with a waddling gait at the age of 4 with intermittent calf pain by 6 years of age. A diagnosis of Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy was suspected due to elevated CPK enzymes on blood work.
Physical Exam:
Physical exam findings showed weakening due to rapid muscle wasting and some contractures of the calcaneous tendons, bilaterally. Tachycardia and pulmonary changes were also noted.
The patient was admitted to the hospital for additional testing.
A muscle biopsy showed fat and connective tissue deposits and electromyography showed short, weak bursts of electrical activity. Cardiac ultrasound shows a weakening of muscle wall creating a decreased contraction and lowering of the ejection fraction.
Blood work revealed continued increases in CPK and LDH.
Recommendations:
Active and passive range of motion physical therapy exercises for contractures
Breathing exercises and diaphragmatic breathing
Orthopedic appliances may be needed
Diagnosis: Muscular Dystrophy