EMD
Associated conditions:
- Arrhythmia
- Cardiomyopathy
EMD makes emerin, a protein that supports the structure of the cell nucleus and is especially important in heart and skeletal muscle. Genetic changes in this X-linked gene are associated with Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, with muscle weakness, joint stiffness and serious heart rhythm and conduction problems. Knowing your genetic status enables cardiac monitoring that can prevent dangerous complications.
Conditions linked to EMD
Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm. Inherited forms can cause fast, irregular or dangerous rhythms and, rarely, sudden collapse, so carriers benefit from heart-rhythm testing, sometimes medication, and avoiding specific triggers.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is disease of the heart muscle that can make it thickened, enlarged or weakened. Inherited forms can affect the heart’s pumping or rhythm, so carriers are monitored with heart scans and ECGs and treated early to protect heart function.
