Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) in children include conditions that affect the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junction, and muscles. Orthopedic treatment of children with NMD has been aimed at preventing worsening of deformities and providing stability to the skeletal system to…
∗ The first edition of this chapter was coauthored with Lisa Krivickas, MD. This current chapter includes some of Dr. Krivickas’ original work. While there are no cures for so many neuromuscular disorders (NMDs), pharmacologic and other interventions are increasingly…
Among the variety of diseases seen by neuromuscular specialists, immune-mediated disorders generate tremendous interest. These disorders are relatively common and often respond favorably to treatment. The field has become more exciting but has also become more complicated due to the…
Conflict of Interest Statement Daniel Menkes, MD, has previously served as a consultant for the Eli Lilly Company, manufacturer of duloxetine (Cymbalta). He has received honoraria in the past from this company for providing lectures on the diagnosis and treatment…
Overview of the Autonomic Nervous System The autonomic nervous system extends to every organ in the human body, creating a dizzying array of central and peripheral nerves, nuclei, ganglia, and neurotransmitters that often defy conventional attempts at learning through memorization.…
Introduction The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is an extremely dynamic organ with its extensive muscle regulated not only by enteric nervous system but also by the central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, as well as humoral factors. It is therefore not…
Cardiac disease has a significant association with neuromuscular diseases ( Table 3.1 ). In all cases, early recognition of the neuromuscular diagnosis can improve timely recognition of forthcoming cardiac disease. The extent and severity of cardiac disease can vary significantly…
Respiratory management of patients with neuromuscular diseases has changed significantly during the 21st century, aided by the development of lightweight, noninvasive technologies to assist in airway clearance and ventilation. These devices, coupled with a more aggressive approach to diseases that…
This book is dedicated to the treatment of neuromuscular disorders (NMDs), which include those that affect the anterior horn cells, nerve roots, plexi, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junction, and muscles ( Fig. 1.1 ) ( ); some also affect other areas…
Introduction: What are Outcome Measures? Good outcome measures are a critical component of any successful therapeutics evaluation program. Although some pediatric neuromuscular diseases are now seeing discoveries translated into early-phase clinical trials, there remains a great need for better therapeutics.…