What is the most common cause of death in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

In patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), respiratory or heart failure is the most common cause of death due to the progressive nature of the disease, which primarily affects muscle function. As DMD progresses, the skeletal muscles weaken, leading to significant respiratory muscle involvement. This results in respiratory insufficiency and increased risk of respiratory infections. Consequently, individuals may become unable to maintain adequate ventilation, leading to respiratory failure.

Additionally, cardiac involvement is also a significant concern in DMD. The condition causes cardiomyopathy, which can progress to heart failure. The combination of respiratory and cardiac complications accounts for the majority of mortality in these patients, highlighting the importance of monitoring respiratory function and cardiac health throughout the course of the disease.

In contrast, while infections can contribute to morbidity in DMD patients, they are typically complications stemming from the primary issues of respiratory failure or weakness. Renal failure and cardiac arrest are less common as immediate causes of death compared to the more direct effects of respiratory and heart complications in this population.