01/12/2025
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (CMT) – one of the most common inherited neurological disorders that affects the peripheral nerves and causes muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and difficulty with movement. 💙
🧬 What is Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT)? CMT is a group of genetic disorders that affect the peripheral nervous system, which controls movement and sensation in the arms and legs. It can lead to:
• Muscle weakness in the feet, legs, hands, and arms
• Loss of sensation or numbness, especially in the feet and hands
• Foot deformities like high arches or hammertoes
• Balance and coordination problems
⚡ The Genetic Cause: CMT is caused by mutations in specific genes that produce proteins essential for the normal functioning of peripheral nerves. These mutations can be inherited in different ways, including autosomal dominant or X-linked recessive inheritance patterns, meaning it can run in families.
🧬 Genetic Counseling & CMT:
• Early diagnosis: If you or a loved one have a family history of CMT, genetic testing and counseling can help provide a diagnosis, identify the genetic mutation involved, and guide management and treatment options.
• Informed decisions: Genetic counseling can also help understand the risks for family members and guide decisions about family planning.
💬 If you’re living with CMT or have a family history, connecting with a genetic counselor can provide valuable support to better understand your condition and take proactive steps to manage it.
💙 Let’s spread awareness and support individuals and families affected by Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease! Together, we can make a difference. 🌟
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