Myotonic Dystrophy type 1(DM1), also called Steinert syndrome, is a multisystemic
disorder transmitted in an autosomal dominant manner, characterized by myotonia.
Muscles involved in voluntary movement are highly affected by myotonia especially
distal muscles of upper limbs. Patients with DM1 present a myopathic face and
oropharynx weakness. Reduced motor mobility and saliva flux can lead to gingival
inflammation and periodontal disease together with other oral manifestations like
disturbances at the temporomandibular articulation. Main causes of death are
pneumonia and cardiac arrhythmias.
Although the etiology of this syndrome is well known, a specific treatment for this
disease is still not available. Nowadays, treatments consist on the relief of existing
symptoms, in an attempt to give a better life quality to patients. It is very important to
implement actions that can prevent complications and this is why treatments should be
applied in an early stage of the disease.
It is the aim of this paper to clarify the etiology, systemic characteristics of the
syndrome and in particular discuss how myotonia can lead to speech disturbances and
present strategies to deal with this particular problem.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
