Evaluation of craniofacial features in patients affected by neuromuscular diseases

OBJECTIVES. The objective of this study was to perform an epidemiological survey of craniofacial features in patients affected by neuromuscular diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS. 67 patients, aged 6 to 18 years (57 males and 10 females), affected by different neuromuscular diseases (Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Becker muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, congenital myopathy, limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, congenital muscular dystrophy, congenital myotonic dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral dystrophy) were evaluated. RESULTS. High prevalence of particular craniofacial features (hyperdivergent facial morphology, increased lower third facial height, lip incompetence, asymmetry) and occlusal features (Class II or III dental occlusion, crossbite) was observed. Moreover, atypical swallowing, macroglossia, mouth breathing and phonological disorders were frequently evidenced. CONCLUSIONS. Patients affected by neuromuscular diseases present with particular dysmorphic craniofacial features and dental malocclusion.