Late-onset Becker muscular dystrophy: Refining the clinical features and electrophysiological findings.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to characterize a unique distribution of muscle involvement in sporadic Becker muscle dystrophy (BMD).

Methods: Retrospective chart review, clinical examination, electrophysiological studies, cardiac testing, and genetic testing were performed in 5 patients.

Results: Predominant weakness and atrophy of biceps brachii, hip adduction, and quadriceps muscles was noted along with calf and extensor forearm hypertrophy.

Pearls & Oy-sters: clues to the diagnosis of adult-onset acid maltase deficiency.

Adult-onset Pompe disease (acid maltase deficiency, glycogen storage disease type II) should be considered in the differential diagnosis in the adult patient presenting with slowly progressive selective lower extremity weakness, specifically of the hip flexors. Hip flexion weakness may be the only finding in the earliest stages of this disease. EMG findings of myotonic discharges occurring predominately in the lower extremities or paraspinal muscles, in combination with the clinical presentation, is a clue to the diagnosis of late-onset Pompe disease.

Patient perception of generic antiepileptic drugs in the Midwestern United States.

Objective: Concerns have been raised about the safety of switching from a branded antiepileptic drug (AED) to a generic AED. The goal of the study described here was to understand patients' experiences with generic AEDs in the Midwestern United States.

Methods: A one-page, six-item survey was mailed to 356 patients to determine patients' awareness of the existence and their usage of generic AEDs.