Cardiac function tests in neuromuscular diseases

Abstract

Myocardial involvement is a known complication of neuromuscular diseases and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in these disorders. Identifying patients early using cardiac function tests helps understand the mechanisms underlying cardiac involvement and may help limit the progression of cardiac disease before the onset of significant symptoms and limitation. This article outlines the tests available to assess cardiac involvement associated with neuromuscular diseases and offers guidelines for management once they are discovered.