Amparo Gutierrez

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common neuromuscular disease affecting boys. Advances in their care can delay the progression of DMD-related disability and prolong survival. The administration of glucocorticoids is among these advances. Glucocorticoid therapy, however, is associated with a myriad of potential adverse effects, and treating physicians as well as patients and their family members must understand the benefit/risk ratio of glucocorticoid therapy. Although current best evidence supports the use of glucocorticoids in patients with DMD, many are not offered the option. Considerable variability in practice also exists regarding when and how these drugs should be administered.

Neuralgic amyotrophy has a broad variety of clinical manifestations. Although it was initially thought to be a plexopathy, its diverse presentation can include isolated sensory nerves or even cranial nerves. Although neuralgic amyotrophy is usually a benign condition with a good recovery, pain can be a disabling feature. NSAIDs and short-term narcotics are appropriate treatments. There is lack of evidence whether the use of corticosteroids has an impact on the duration of the disease or the neuropathic pain. However, given the few adverse effects in a selective population and low cost, short-term steroids can be an option for the treatment of these patients.