Which biomarker is markedly elevated in most dystrophinopathies during childhood?

Prepare for the Muscular Dystrophy Test with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Access detailed hints and explanations for each question to enhance your study experience. Equip yourself for success on your upcoming exam!

Multiple Choice

Which biomarker is markedly elevated in most dystrophinopathies during childhood?

Explanation:
Muscle cell membranes are fragile in dystrophinopathies, so when muscle fibers are damaged intracellular enzymes leak into the bloodstream. Creatine kinase is abundant in skeletal muscle, making it highly sensitive to this damage; in childhood Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy, CK levels rise dramatically—often well above normal—which is why CK is the most characteristic and useful biomarker for these conditions. The other substances aren’t as indicative: LDH can be elevated in many conditions and is less specific to muscle; alkaline phosphatase relates more to bone and liver processes; bilirubin reflects liver or red blood cell issues, not muscle injury.

Muscle cell membranes are fragile in dystrophinopathies, so when muscle fibers are damaged intracellular enzymes leak into the bloodstream. Creatine kinase is abundant in skeletal muscle, making it highly sensitive to this damage; in childhood Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy, CK levels rise dramatically—often well above normal—which is why CK is the most characteristic and useful biomarker for these conditions. The other substances aren’t as indicative: LDH can be elevated in many conditions and is less specific to muscle; alkaline phosphatase relates more to bone and liver processes; bilirubin reflects liver or red blood cell issues, not muscle injury.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy