Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease affects 1 in 2,500 people in the United States, affecting over 2.8 million people worldwide. This disease is classified as a neurological disorder and largely affects the muscles and nerves, namely in the lower legs and feet. CMT is caused by over 100 different gene mutations and is classified into four types as well as multiple subtypes. According to the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association, there are multiple types of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, each of which have subtypes with various causing mutations and defects on chromosomes and other proteins. (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association). There is Type 1 which is defined as an autosomal dominant demyelinating form of CMT and this type accounts for 55% of all cases of
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CMT can limit one's ability to work as it can cause physical challenges; some patients report feeling depressed as a result of CMT due to decreased social life because of inabilities to participate in social activities. (Charcot-Marie-Tooth News). Fortunately, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease generally progresses slowly and is not considered life threatening. This allows for majority of individuals with the disease to have an average life expectancy. However, in rare cases, respiratory muscle weakness has been reported which can be potentially life threatening. Additionally, because CMT can cause neuropathy, individuals have to be cautious about doing self-checks as to avoid undetected infections, especially in the foot regions. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke). Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is still being researched by doctors. There are medical centers that specialize in CMT such as CMTA which stands for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association. This organization works to support ongoing research for what causes CMT as well as potential cures. This specific organization has had significant breakthroughs in CMT research, including finding the specific chromosomes responsible for type 1 CMT. The Muscular Dystrophy Association also works closely with doctors to help fund CMT research. (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association and Muscular Dystrophy
CMT can limit one's ability to work as it can cause physical challenges; some patients report feeling depressed as a result of CMT due to decreased social life because of inabilities to participate in social activities. (Charcot-Marie-Tooth News). Fortunately, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease generally progresses slowly and is not considered life threatening. This allows for majority of individuals with the disease to have an average life expectancy. However, in rare cases, respiratory muscle weakness has been reported which can be potentially life threatening. Additionally, because CMT can cause neuropathy, individuals have to be cautious about doing self-checks as to avoid undetected infections, especially in the foot regions. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke). Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is still being researched by doctors. There are medical centers that specialize in CMT such as CMTA which stands for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association. This organization works to support ongoing research for what causes CMT as well as potential cures. This specific organization has had significant breakthroughs in CMT research, including finding the specific chromosomes responsible for type 1 CMT. The Muscular Dystrophy Association also works closely with doctors to help fund CMT research. (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association and Muscular Dystrophy