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Nemaline Myopathy

By Joshua Sonnen, MD

Sep 18, 2024

Nemaline Myopathy

Clinical History

45-year-old woman with mild, symmetric, slowly-progressive upper and lower extremity weakness beginning in childhood. Her past medical history is positive for hypertension , migraines and surgery in childhood for scoliosis.

What is your diagnosis?

A. Type I atrophy

B. CFTD

C. Nemaline myopathy

D. Neurasthenic syndrome

Correct Answer: Nemaline myopathy

Mutations in NEB are the most common cause of nemaline myopathy followed by ACTA1. Most cases of autosomal recessive nemaline myopathy are due to compound heterozygous mutations.

Histology: Nemaline rods are diagnostic; otherwise highly variable. This case would also meet criteria for congenital fiber-type disproportion (CFTD) myopathy; however the presence of numerous nemaline rods precludes that diagnosis.

 

References/Additional Readings:

Haghighi A. Eur J Hum Genet. 2023;31:1237-50.

Lehtokari VL. Hum Mutat. 2006;27:946-56.

Laitila J. Neuromuscul Disord. 2021;31:955-67.

 

Quick note: This post is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or health advice. Each person should consult their own doctor with respect to matters referenced. Arkana Laboratories assumes no liability for actions taken in reliance upon the information contained herein.