What is CMT?

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is also known as Hereditary Motor and Sensory Neuropathy (HMSN) and Peroneal Muscular Atrophy (PMA). CMT is an umbrella term for group of hereditary disease that affects the peripheral nervous system, hence the term, Hereditary Motor and Sensory Neuropathy.

Our Peripheral Nervous System controls the movement and senses of our bodies such as our extremities (hands and feet). In CMT patient the nerves work less and it gradually advances to wasting of the muscles that are controlled by the affected nerves. Up to this date, only an approximate of 25 underlying gene mutations are classified, and classifications are changing as geneticists and experts discovers variation each time.

Who discovered CMT?

It was named after three physicians who discovered the disorder in 1886, Jean-Marie Charcot a French neurologist (Paris, France), his student Pierre Marie (Paris, France), and an English Physician Howard Henry Tooth (Cambridge, England).

How many are affected?

Although CMT is one of the most common inherited neuromuscular disorders, it is frequently misdiagnosed. It is estimated that 2.6 million people worldwide are affected by this disease, and some believes the number could be higher.

How can I diagnose CMT?

CMT can be diagnosed first through Physical Examination, then; electrodiagnostic tests are done, such as, Nerve conduction test and Electromyogram. If it is still not confirmed, Genetic testing and Nerve biopsy is performed. MRI is also done to evaluate the extent of the disease and the involvement of spinal cord. For more in depth information, check 5 ways to Diagnose CMT

Does CMT cause death?

CMT will not cause death, but in some cases CMT patient experiences paralysis of diaphragm muscles that can cause breathing impairment, impaired or loss of cough reflex that can cause pneumonia or develop emphysema. This could weaken a CMT patient and could become an indirect factor to the death.

What are the signs and symptoms of CMT?

The main signs and symptoms of CMT are muscle weakness, reduced muscle size and decreased sensation in affected areas. Foot deformities are also observed like flat feet, high arches, hammertoes or inverted heel. Usually symptoms appear in feet and legs, but they eventually affect hands and arms.

Is there a cure for CMT?

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for CMT as of this time, but treatments are available to help manage some symptoms. Here are some of them:

Drug medication for pain

Leg and ankle braces to support weakened knees and feet.

Specially designed or custom made orthopedic shoes for feet abnormalities

Physical therapy

Muscle strength training

Regular exercise and stretching

Occupational therapy

Lastly, Ortho-surgery to correct deformities

What is the connection between CMT and food?

There is no direct relation on CMT and food or diet, but avoiding too much alcohol, smoking and being overweight will help.

Image credits: Help4cmt.com