Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is characterized by which of the following?

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is characterized by which of the following?

• A. Loss of bone density
• B. Progressive loss of muscle tissue and touch sensation
• C. Impaired cognitive function
• D. Restricted range of motion

Answer: (B)

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a hereditary neuropathy that primarily affects the peripheral nerves. One of the hallmark features of CMT is the progressive loss of muscle tissue and touch sensation due to degeneration of the peripheral nerves. This condition often leads to muscle weakness and atrophy, particularly in the lower limbs, causing difficulties in movement and functioning. Patients may also experience sensory loss, especially in their feet and hands, which contributes to coordination issues and an increased risk of injury. The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary characteristics of CMT. While loss of bone density can occur secondary to disuse of muscles in cases of disability, it is not a defining feature of the disease itself. Impaired cognitive function is also not related to CMT, as the disorder primarily involves the motor and sensory pathways rather than cognitive processing. Restricted range of motion may occur due to muscle weakness or atrophy but is not a direct characteristic of the disease itself. Therefore, the best answer describing Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease would indeed be the progressive loss of muscle tissue and touch sensation.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a hereditary neuropathy that primarily affects the peripheral nerves. One of the hallmark features of CMT is the progressive loss of muscle tissue and touch sensation due to degeneration of the peripheral nerves. This condition often leads to muscle weakness and atrophy, particularly in the lower limbs, causing difficulties in movement and functioning. Patients may also experience sensory loss, especially in their feet and hands, which contributes to coordination issues and an increased risk of injury.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary characteristics of CMT. While loss of bone density can occur secondary to disuse of muscles in cases of disability, it is not a defining feature of the disease itself. Impaired cognitive function is also not related to CMT, as the disorder primarily involves the motor and sensory pathways rather than cognitive processing. Restricted range of motion may occur due to muscle weakness or atrophy but is not a direct characteristic of the disease itself. Therefore, the best answer describing Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease would indeed be the progressive loss of muscle tissue and touch sensation.