A child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy is likely to experience which of the following?

Choice A rationale Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive genetic disorder characterized by muscle degeneration and weakness. Individuals with DMD experience significant muscle weakness, particularly in the lower limbs, leading to an increased risk of falls due to impaired balance and gait instability. Decreased muscle strength directly compromises postural control. Choice B rationale Rapid cognitive development is not a typical characteristic of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. While DMD primarily affects skeletal muscles, some individuals may experience cognitive impairments, ranging from mild learning difficulties to more significant intellectual disabilities. The disease is linked to dystrophin deficiency in brain tissue, which can impact neurological function. Choice C rationale Increased muscle strength is antithetical to the pathology of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The hallmark of DMD is progressive muscle weakness caused by the absence or malfunction of dystrophin, a protein vital for maintaining muscle fiber integrity. This leads to chronic muscle damage, inflammation, and eventual replacement of muscle tissue with fat and fibrous tissue. Choice D rationale Wheelchair dependence is a common and almost inevitable outcome for individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Due to the progressive muscle weakness affecting ambulation, most individuals with DMD lose the ability to walk independently between ages 7 and 13, necessitating the use of a wheelchair for mobility as the disease progresses and leg muscles deteriorate.