Types of SMA in Children and Treatment Options
Spinal muscle atrophy (SMA) is a condition that affects the motor neurons and the central nervous system is gravely affected. As a result, it causes disrupted movement of several muscles. There are several types of spinal muscle atrophy, which cause immobility or difficulty of movement. While some individuals have trouble in partial limb movements, others might be unable to move without proper assistance. The condition has been reported among children at the time of birth. Types of SMA and their treatments include the following: 1. Spinal Muscle Atrophy Type 1 or Werdnig-Hoffmann disease The condition is diagnosed among children younger than 6 months of age. Although this condition can be diagnosed in the latter stages of the pregnancy when the fetus is developed, most cases are reported after birth. Symptoms can include: Recurring twitching movements Difficulty in swallowing food Breathing problems Improper movement of the limb or head Visible curving of the spine Treatments for spinal muscle atrophy (SMA) needs to be studied in-depth to understand what causes it and how to completely eradicate and cure it. However, treatments that involve disease-modifying therapy (DMT), can help regain control and movement of limbs. 2. Spinal Muscle Atrophy 2 This particular type of spinal muscle atrophy (SMA) affects children who are older than 6 months but less than one and a half years old.