Don’t fight Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita alone.
Find your community on the free RareGuru App.Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) refers to the development of multiple joint contractures affecting two or more areas of the body prior to birth. A contracture occurs when a joint becomes permanently fixed in a bent or straightened position, which can impact the function and range of motion of the joint and may lead to muscle atrophy. AMC is not a specific diagnosis, but rather a physical symptom that can be associated with many different medical conditions. It is suspected that AMC is related to decreased fetal movement during development which can have a variety of different causes, including environmental factors (i.e. maternal illness, limited space), single gene changes (autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked), chromosomal abnormalities and various syndromes. Treatment varies based on the signs and symptoms found in each person, but may include physical therapy, removable splints, exercise, and/or surgery.
Source: GARD Last updated on 05-01-20
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) refers to the development of multiple joint contractures affecting two or more areas of the body prior to birth. A contracture occurs when a joint becomes permanently fixed in a bent or straightened position, which can impact the function and range of motion of the joint. In some cases, only a few joints are affected and the range of motion may be nearly normal. In people who are severely affected, every joint in the body can be involved, including the jaw and back. Muscles of affected limbs may be atrophied or underdeveloped. Soft tissue webbing may develop over the affected joint.
AMC is not a specific diagnosis, but rather a physical symptom that can be found in many different medical conditions. The signs and symptoms associated with AMC can, therefore, vary greatly in range and severity depending on the underlying condition.
Last updated on 05-01-20
The exact cause of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is not fully understood. AMC is thought to be related to decreased fetal movement during development, which can occur for a variety of reasons. When a joint is not moved for a period of time, extra connective tissue may grow around it, fixing it in place. Lack of joint movement also means that tendons connected to the joint are not stretched to their normal length, which can make normal joint movement difficult.
In general, there are four causes for decreased fetal movement before birth:
AMC can be a component of numerous condition caused by environmental factors, single gene changes (autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked), chromosomal abnormalities and various syndromes.
Last updated on 05-01-20
The Genetic Testing Registry (GTR) provides information about the genetic tests for this condition. The intended audience for GTR is health care providers and researchers. Patients and consumers with specific questions about a genetic test should contact a health care provider or a genetics professional.
Last updated on 05-01-20
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is not inherited in most cases; however, a genetic cause can be identified in about 30% of affected people. It can be a component of many different genetic conditions, including those caused by a single gene change or a chromosomal abnormality, such as trisomy 18. Genetic conditions sometimes associated with AMC include some connective tissue disorders; muscle disorders such as muscular dystrophies or congenital myopathies; and certain mitochondrial disorders. Depending on the underlying genetic cause, it may be inherited in an autosomal recessive, autosomal dominant or X-linked manner. Some cases are thought to have multifactorial inheritance, which means that both genetic and environmental factors may play a role in causing the condition.
Last updated on 05-01-20
The long-term outlook (prognosis) for people with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) depends on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and the affected person's response to therapy. The degree to which muscles and joints are affected varies significantly from person to person. AMC can be associated with a variety of conditions that are each characterized by unique symptoms.
In general, many people affected by AMC have a good prognosis. With physical therapy and other available treatments, substantial improvement in joint function and mobility is normally possible. Most people with AMC are of normal intelligence and are able to lead productive, independent lives as adults.
Last updated on 05-01-20
AMC affects approximately 1 in 3,000 individuals in the United States. The condition has been reported in individuals of Asian, African and European descent. It is more common in isolated populations such as Finland and the Bedouin community in Israel. The number of men and women affected is approximately equal.
Last updated on 05-01-20
The treatment of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) varies based on the signs and symptoms present in each person and the severity of the condition. Early in life, physical therapy to stretch contractures can improve the range of motion of affected joints and prevent muscle atrophy. Splits can also be used in combination with these stretching exercises. For most types of arthrogryposis, physical and occupational therapy have proven very beneficial in improving muscle strength and increasing the range of motion of affected joints.
Some patients, however, have persistent functional difficulties despite a rigorous physical therapy regimen. In these cases, surgery may be recommended to achieve better positioning and increase the range of motion in certain joints. Rarely, tendon transfers have been done to improve muscle function.
Last updated on 05-01-20
Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita Support Inc. provides a listing of doctors and hospitals known for treating arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Click on the link to access this list.
Last updated on 04-27-20
The American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine provides information about arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Click on the link to view this information.
Last updated on 04-27-20
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