Early-Onset Myopathy-Areflexia-Respiratory Distress-Dysphagia Syndrome

A rare congenital myopathy characterized by early onset of severe muscular weakness, respiratory distress due to diaphragmatic paralysis, dysphagia and areflexia, joint contractures, and scoliosis. Decreased fetal movements are seen in some individuals. Muscle biopsy may show a combination of dystrophic and myopathic features. The clinical course is variable, with some patients becoming ventilator-dependent and never achieving ambulation.