Spinal Muscular Atrophy: An Overview

Abstract

Spinal muscular atrophy, a leading cause of infant death, is a neurodegenerative disease classified categorically based on age of onset and achieved motor function. The standard method of diagnosis is through molecular genetic testing, ideally through the newborn screen to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. There are 4 types of spinal muscular atrophy, each with varying degrees of symptoms based on the number of survival motor neurons. Current treatment options include gene therapy and supportive care. Future directions for treatment include complimentary non-gene targeted therapies and lifestyle changes.