Treating Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD) with Stem cells in India

FSHD can lead to loss of strength and mobility – but there are treatments available.

In this world filled with so many diseases, there is one that stands out – Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). Despite the name, FSHD goes beyond the face and shoulder blades, affecting those who have it on a much deeper level. 

If you or someone you know has FSHD, then you know how important it is to understand this condition and seek support.

We’ll be looking at the causes, symptoms, and treatments of FSHD so you can be better informed on how to manage your condition. Join us as we explore the world of FSHD and provide you with tips and resources to help you take control!

How about we begin by sharing a captivating narrative about one of our Medicoexpert patients who was affected by Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy?

In 2016 we met a family during one of our Medicoexpert patient visits. The family was full of vivacity and laughter until their youngest member stepped into the room. The little girl, who seemed to be only 4 or 5 years old, walked slowly with a slightly stooped posture. She had been diagnosed with Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD).

As we spoke to the family, they shared how their lives had changed drastically since the diagnosis. They discussed how difficult it was to find information about FSHD and how challenging it was to accept that this condition would affect their daughter’s life from such a young age. Despite the difficulty, they were determined to learn as much as possible about her condition and make sure she the best possible care.

It was clear that this faced an uphill battle, but courage and spirit were inspiring. After consulting with Medicoexpert, the family was able to find helpful resources and gain a better understanding of FSHD. Our team is proud to have been part of this family’s journey and we continue to hope for a bright future for them.

The doctors and team of experts at Medicoexperts advised treatment options that helped this family and countless others living with FSHD. With the right treatments, he was not only able to improve his symptoms but also maintain his quality of life. With their support and guidance, the family was able to take back control of this condition and regain hope again.

It is people like our patients who inspire us every day and remind us why we do what we do. They push us to find better treatments, raise awareness, and provide valuable resources to those affected by FSHD. Join us as we continue to explore the world of FSHD and bring you stories of courage, hope, and perseverance!

We will now explore the details of this condition and discuss ways to manage it.
Keep reading for a more detailed overview of Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy.

What is Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy?

The condition gets its long name from facies, scapula, and humerus – which are Latin words for face, shoulder blade, and upper arm.

A hereditary disorder called facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) causes muscle weakening in the upper arms, shoulder blades, and face. 

The symptoms tend to manifest between the ages of 10 and 30 years and become more severe with time. Worldwide, it ranks as the third most common muscular disorder that is passed down through families.

Learn more about Muscular Dystrophy here…

What are the causes of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy?

FSHD can be passed down from either the mother or the father, or it may develop without any family history.

FSHD is a progressive disease that causes muscle weakness and atrophy (loss of bulk) over time. While primarily affecting the face, shoulders, and upper arms, the disease can also impact other muscles in the body.

It is caused by a mutation in one of four genes known as DUX4. This gene mutation leads to an abnormal buildup of proteins in muscle tissue. This double homeobox protein 4 gene malfunction can lead to muscle weakness and deterioration over time.

What are the symptoms of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy?

Did you know that 90% of patients with FSHD experience symptoms before the age of 20?

Symptoms can vary from mild weakness to extreme difficulty using specific muscle groups. Common signs include:

• Muscle weakness and atrophy in various areas of the body, such as around the eyes and mouth, shoulders, abdominal muscles, upper arms, and lower legs,
• Drooping eyelids or facial weakness,
• Trouble lifting arms above shoulders.
• Muscle stiffness or tightness. 

While experts classify FSHD into adult-onset and infantile-onset forms, it’s the adult-onset type that is more commonly seen. 

Facial weakness may begin during childhood in both kinds of FSHD, followed by the emergence of other symptoms at a later time. 

If you develop the infantile-onset type, you may experience more pronounced muscle weakness, and you may also experience hearing and vision problems.

How is Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy diagnosed?

Here are some key takeaways on FSHD and DNA testing: 

– A blood test can detect the DNA mutation that causes FSHD.

– FSHD is caused by a protein called DUX4 being produced in the muscle where it shouldn’t be.

– DUX4 ‘switches on’ genes that aren’t usually active in the muscle cell, which can be toxic and cause muscle death.

– FSHD has more complex genetics than other muscle-wasting conditions.

Living with FSHD can be challenging and overwhelming, but it is important to remember that there are treatments and support systems available.

Advanced Stemcell treatment for Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy in India

Stem cells are capable of self-renewal and can differentiate into specialized cell types, which is believed to be beneficial for FSHD.

The use of stem cells is an encouraging approach in the treatment of muscular dystrophies. Stem cells are characterized by their ability to renew themselves over an extended period of time and their capability to develop into various types of cells.

What conventional treatment options are available for FSHD treatment in India?

To treat FSHD, the goal is to decrease the production of DUX4 or the harmful protein it creates. thereafter help to manage and improve the symptoms.

What are the expected outcomes for Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy in India?

The outlook for those with FSHD in India varies depending on the age of onset, the severity of symptoms, and other factors. Generally speaking, FSHD tends to have a milder form and an excellent long-term outlook. 

However, symptoms can become more debilitating over time. It is important to receive regular medical care and follow any treatment plan prescribed by your doctor.

For some people, FSHD may cause a gradual decline in muscle strength. In these cases, regular physical and occupational therapy can help maintain muscle strength, as well as improve mobility and coordination. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can help slow the progression of the disease.

In severe cases, surgery may be an option to help limit weakness and maintain flexibility in afflicted muscles. The Muscular Dystrophy Association India (MDAI) provides helpful resources and support for those living with FSHD.

In summary, various treatments and resources are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. With the right care, those living with FSHD in India can have good long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

The identification of DUX4 as the genetic culprit behind FSHD has significantly expedited endeavors to comprehend and alleviate the disorder. Genetic therapy shows promising results by using DUX4 as a focal point. 

Advanced treatments like stem cell, physical, occupational, and genetic therapy, have also enabled individuals with FSHD to maintain their quality of life longer. 

The knowledge that we now have about the disorder has opened up new avenues of exploration and potential solutions. With continued research and further developments in treatment, those living with FSHD in India can find hope for a brighter future.

At MedicoExperts, we strive to help people living with rare conditions by providing reliable and up-to-date information on treatment options and resources available. We hope this article has given you insight into the treatments for FSHD in India and helped you understand how to best manage your condition.

Please feel free to contact us, our team of experts is available to provide assistance.