Genetic-epidemiological studies in progressive muscular dystrophy.

Abstract

A genetic and epidemiological study is especially important in those hereditary diseases for which no effective treatment is known, since then genetic counselling is the only means of prevention. The progressive muscular dystrophies are typical con- ditions of this sort. Knowledge of the type of hereditary transmission for a given form of muscu- lar dystrophy is the basis for correct genetic prog- nosis. Finding methods of detection of gene carriers is crucial for genetic counselling.