What is the definition of muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of muscle fibers, which leads to muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. The defining features of muscular dystrophy include the fact that it is inherited due to mutations in genes that are essential for muscle function. This condition is most commonly diagnosed in early childhood, specifically between ages 2 and 5, when the symptoms begin to manifest.

The correct answer highlights these key aspects of muscular dystrophy, emphasizing its genetic nature and the typical age of onset. This understanding is crucial as it helps differentiate muscular dystrophy from other conditions that may present with muscle weakness or inflammation but do so due to different underlying mechanisms, such as autoimmune disorders or metabolic conditions, which are not typically linked to genetic mutations affecting muscle structure. By focusing on these core concepts, one can better understand the implications of muscular dystrophy and its diagnosis, treatment, and management in affected individuals.