When should I refer a patient with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy to a specialist for further management?

Refer a patient with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) to a specialist for further management as soon as the diagnosis is suspected or confirmed. Early referral is important to ensure comprehensive multidisciplinary care, including neurology, respiratory, cardiac, and rehabilitation specialists.

Urgent referral is warranted if the patient shows signs of progressive muscle weakness, swallowing difficulties, respiratory symptoms, or cardiac involvement. These symptoms indicate the need for specialist assessment and intervention to manage complications and improve quality of life.

Specialist involvement is also essential for ongoing monitoring and management of disease progression, including respiratory function and cardiac status, as well as for providing information and support to the patient and family.

In summary, refer promptly upon suspicion or diagnosis of DMD and urgently if there are signs of functional decline or complications.

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