muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral

muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral A form of muscular dystrophy that begins before age 20, with slowly progressive weakness of the muscles of the face, shoulders, and feet. The severity of the disease is variable. Abbreviated FSMD. Although most people with FSMD retain the ability to walk, about 20 percent of affected individuals require wheelchairs. Life expectancy for FSMD is not shortened. The diagnosis can be confirmed with a DNA test. FSMD is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.