Международный журнал нейрореабилитации

A Systematic Review of Muscle Mass as a Biomarker for Health Status and Function in Children with Neuromuscular Disabilities

Abstract

Andrew Maris

Children with neuromuscular disabilities face unique challenges related to muscle function, mobility, and overall health status. Neuromuscular disabilities encompass a spectrum of conditions affecting the nervous system's control over voluntary muscles, resulting in varying degrees of muscle weakness, spasticity and impaired motor function. Evaluating muscle mass as a biomarker for health status and function in these children is crucial for understanding disease progression, assessing treatment efficacy and optimizing care strategies. This systematic review explores existing literature on muscle mass measurement and its implications for health outcomes in children with neuromuscular disabilities. Neuromuscular disabilities encompass a diverse range of conditions, including but not limited to. A group of disorders affecting movement and posture due to non-progressive disturbances in the developing brain. Progressive genetic disorders characterized by muscle weakness and degeneration, such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) or Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). A congenital condition where the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly, leading to varying degrees of paralysis and muscle weakness. Conditions affecting the transmission of signals from nerves to muscles, such as myasthenia gravis These conditions often result in muscle wasting, contractures and functional limitations, impacting daily activities, mobility, and quality of life.