This is a 24-month, observational study of 50 participants with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD)
Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) is most frequently due to in-frame mutations in the dystrophin gene that are associated with reduced levels of frequently shortened dystrophin, though other mutations may be related to the Becker phenotype. There is wide variation in the age of onset and degree of progression, ranging from childhood to late adulthood. The more severe form of dystrophinopathy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has a more characteristic rate of progression and overall natural history. The wide variation in severity of progression has led to challenges in the design and conduct of approaching therapeutic trials. There is a need for a more rigorous natural history study to assist in the design of these promising therapeutic trials.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
80
University of California, Irvine
Orange, California, United States
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Aurora, Colorado, United States
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa, United States
To assess the natural history of measures of muscle function in BMD
North Star Assessment for LGMD (NSAD: The NSAD is a functional scale specifically designed to measure motor performance in individuals with LGMD and is being evaluated in BMD due to the similar limb-girdle pattern of weakness. It consists of 29 items that are considered clinically relevant items from the adapted North Star Ambulatory Assessment and the Motor Function Measure 20 with a maximum score of 54 and higher scores indicate higher functional abilities.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
4-Stair Climb
Participants will perform the 4-stair climb with instructions to ascend 4 steps as quickly and as safely possible, using handrails if needed.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
100-Meter Timed Test
The participant will be asked to complete 4 laps around 2 cones set 25 meters apart as quickly as safely possible, running if able and the time in seconds is recorded.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
PERFORMANCE OF UPPER LIMB 2.0 (PUL)
The PUL is a tool designed for assessing upper limb function in persons with neuromuscular disorders.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
HAND HELD DYNAMOMETRY (HHD) AND GRIP
Hand held dynamometry using the MicroFET2 myometer will be utilized to capture isometric strength in target muscle groups. Maximum strength in kilograms will be reported for each muscle group provided a continuous scale variable for analysis. CITEC myometer will be used to measure the and Grip of the subject. These pinch and grip techniques will also capture the maximum strength in newtons for the muscle groups involved.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
TIMED UP-AND-GO (TUG)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, Kansas, United States
Kennedy Krieger Institute
Baltimore, Maryland, United States
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Washington University School of Medicine
St Louis, Missouri, United States
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Columbus, Ohio, United States
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia, United States
University of Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
...and 1 more locations
The TUG will be administered using the appropriate stable seating surface (i.e., cube chair or straight back chair) to achieve 90 degree of both hip and knee flexion when participant is seated with both feet flat on the floor to start. The test should be performed barefoot. The fastest time to stand from the chair, walk 3 meters, and return to seated, will be recorded.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
Measures of Pulmonary Function (Seated and supine FVC)
Spirometry will be performed in a sitting and supine position using standardized equipment. Forced vital capacity (FVC) sitting and supine.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
Measures of Pulmonary Function (MEP and MIP)
Sitting maximal expiratory and inspiratory pressures (MEP and MIP) will be assessed.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
Measures of Pulmonary Function (other)
Use of nocturnal or daytime positive pressure ventilation (PPV) (e.g., BiPAP or CPAP) will be recorded.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
Measure of ejection fraction (ECHO)
A transthoracic echocardiogram (ECHO) will be performed. Measures of ejection fraction will be recorded.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years
Measure of systolic and diastolic function (ECHO)
A transthoracic echocardiogram (ECHO) will be performed. Measures of presence of systolic and diastolic function will be recorded.
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 2 years