Which is a standard component of cardiology surveillance and management in DMD?

• A. Regular physical therapy visits
• B. Regular cardiac evaluations
• C. Annual brain imaging
• D. Routine cholesterol screening

Answer: (B)

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the heart can be affected over time, so ongoing monitoring by a cardiologist is essential. Regular cardiac evaluations—typically including an echocardiogram to assess how well the left ventricle is pumping and an ECG to check for rhythm problems—allow for early detection of cardiomyopathy and guide timely treatment with heart-protective medications. This proactive surveillance is what keeps cardiac health under close review as the disease progresses, helping to preserve function and outcomes.

Regular physical therapy visits are important for mobility and overall health, but they’re not the standard cardiology surveillance. Annual brain imaging isn’t part of routine cardiac monitoring, and routine cholesterol screening, while useful for general health, doesn’t address the specific need for ongoing cardiac assessment in DMD.