Duchenne muscular dystrophy: the effect of glucocorticoids on ventilator use and ambulation.

Objective: To describe the effect of glucocorticoid treatment on age at wheelchair dependence and at dependence on part-time (<23 hrs/day) and continuous noninvasive mechanical ventilation.

Design: In this retrospective study, patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who received glucocorticoid therapy were compared with those who did not for ages at wheelchair dependence and when beginning part-time (nocturnal) and continuous noninvasive intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIV). Respiratory symptoms, end-tidal carbon dioxide, oximetry, and vital capacity were noted every 4-12 mos, and NIV was initiated for symptomatic nocturnal hypoventilation.