Muscular dystrophy, distal

One of two genetic muscle diseases characterized by wasting of the muscles most distant from the midline, such as those of the hands and feet.

Both types of distal MD are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and may affect males and females.

The first type of distal MD starts in infancy, does not progress after adolescence, and is not debilitating.

The second type of distal MD starts after age 40, affects the muscles of the hands and feet and then the muscles closer to the trunk but does not shorten the life span.

Distal MD is also known as distal myopathy and distal hereditary myopathy.