3 Clinical Trials for Various Conditions
The goal of this observational study is to understand how young children with LAMA2-related dystrophy move and change over time. We will also learn about how this condition impacts other body systems. Participants will undergo: * Neuromuscular assessments * Blood collections * Swallowing and breathing assessments * Questionnaires
Laminin alpha-2 (LAMA2)-related muscular dystrophy (LAMA2-MD, Merosin Deficient CMD) is a form of congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD). A person with LAMA2-MD will have changes on brain imaging (MRI), a decrease or absence of the protein merosin (laminin 211) on muscle or skin biopsy and changes in the LAMA2 gene that are inherited from both parents. Several studies have described the changes on brain MRI. Brain changes on MRI do not correlate with the partial reduction or absence of merosin on muscle or skin biopsy. 8-30% of people with LAMA2-MD develop seizures. The types of seizures, electroencephalogram changes and common treatment regimens have not been characterized. This study will review the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes, determine whether certain brain MRI changes are linked to seizures and define the common seizure treatment regimens.
This retrospective chart review study of 75-120 LAMA2-CMD patients will expand the investigators understanding of the natural history of this disease. Current and pending publications cover research performed only in ages 5-16 years; there is currently no documented natural history for patients ages 0-5 years. Data collected in this study has the potential to inform the design of future interventional studies that draw nearer to clinical trial readiness every day.