Table 4.

Recommended Evaluations Following Initial Diagnosis in Individuals with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2

System/
Concern
EvaluationComment
Neurologic Clinical eval of muscle strength & functional statusThe quick motor function test can be helpful as a baseline to allow long-term monitoring.
Ophthalmologic Exam by an ophthalmologist familiar w/posterior subcapsular cataracts & epiretinal membranesTo establish a baseline
Cardiologic Cardiac eval incl EKG to establish a baseline for future comparison
  • Consider echocardiogram &/or cardiac MRI to evaluate for cardiomyopathy. 1
  • Holter monitoring or invasive electrophysiologic testing if symptomatic or significant rhythm or conduction abnormalities on routine EKG
Endocrine Fasting lipid profile, glucose, & glycosylated hemoglobin concentrationsTo assess for evidence of insulin insensitivity & diabetes mellitus
Thyroid studiesHypothyroidism from any cause has been assoc w/↑ muscle weakness & myotonia.
Serum testosterone & FSH concentrationsIn post-pubertal males to assess gonadal function
Audiologic Hearing assessment
Other Serum CK, transaminases (AST & ALT), & γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT)Serum AST, ALT, & GGT are frequently ↑ in DM2; it is unclear if this is hepatocellular or myogenic in origin. Determination of baseline ↑ transaminase & GGT activities can help avoid unneeded liver testing.
Serum protein electrophoresis & immunoprotein electrophoresisTo establish a baseline & prevent misinterpretation of future studies demonstrating hypogammaglobulinemia
Consultation w/clinical geneticist &/or genetic counselor

From: Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2

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