Muscular dystrophy, Emory-Dreifuss

A rare form of muscular dystrophy that begins in childhood or the teen years. It is a slowly progressing disorder that begins in the upper arms or upper legs. Contractures of the limbs are common in Emory-Dreifuss MD, as are serious heart problems. It is caused by a defect on the X chromosome. Although only males have the muscle problems associated with Emory- Dreifuss MD, females may have the heart problems. Accordingly, female relatives of males with this disorder should have regular heart check-ups.