An outline of the management and prognosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in Western Australia

Abstract

The management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a difficult subject with various approaches taken by different centres throughout the world. In a centre for handicapped children in Western Australia a centre‐based programme of active management has been practised by a multidisciplinary team over the past twenty years (1961‐1981). To analyse its efficacy the records of 46 boys were examined for length of assisted ambulation, and the ages at which the onset of scoliosis and death occurred. Longevity and assisted ambulation is greater than generally reported and the attitude of boys in their twenties who have experienced the programme is favourabie. its success is dependent on ali the staff invoived providing motivation, counseliing and anticipatory guidance.