Invited Review: Management of Spinal Muscular Atrophy in the Adult Population-Article

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Pdf Summary

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of spinal motor neurons. The management of SMA in adults requires a multidisciplinary approach, including respiratory support, nutritional assessments, musculoskeletal health, rehabilitation, and mental health support. There are two FDA-approved treatments for SMA, nusinersen and risdiplam, but their efficacy in adults is still being studied. Other emerging therapeutics are also being researched. Adult SMA patients are at increased risk of severe complications from COVID-19. The healthcare system has adapted to minimize in-person visits and explore home assessments. More research is needed to understand the effects of novel therapeutics in the adult SMA population. Healthcare providers should engage with adult SMA patients to address their complications and keep them informed about advances in care.

Keywords

Spinal muscular atrophy

neurodegenerative disorder

loss of spinal motor neurons

respiratory support

nutritional assessments

rehabilitation

FDA-approved treatments for SMA

emerging therapeutics

COVID-19 complications

healthcare providers

SMA