Disease Progression in Brazilian Children and Adolescents with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Brazilian pediatric and adolescent populations with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) experience significant disease progression within 2 years, with measurable deterioration observed as early as 1 year. The total score on the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) increased by 4.5 points throughout 2 years, indicating disease progression. Financial supporters for this research include the Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP) and the Swedish Research Council.
Key Takeaways:
- The study evaluated the natural disease progression in Brazilian children and adolescents with CMT using the CMTPedS over a 2-year period.
- Significant increases in height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were observed, alongside a decline in the percentage of lean body mass across evaluations.
- The total score on the CMTPedS increased by 4.5 points throughout 2 years, indicating disease progression, with notable deterioration in functional dexterity, pinprick and vibration sensations, and gait.
- The subgroup with CMT type 1A (CMT1A) presented an increase of 4 points in the total score, corresponding to an average annual progression of 2 points.
- Children and adolescents with CMT exhibit significant disease progression within 2 years, with measurable deterioration observed as early as 1 year.
- The CMTPedS is a reliable tool to monitor CMT progression in this population.
- The study included 30 participants of both sexes with a mean age of 11.1 +/- 3.2 years.
- The study was conducted through 3 evaluations, spaced 1 year apart, in children and adolescents aged 5 to 18 years with a confirmed CMT diagnosis.
Statistics:
- Mean age of participants: 11.1 +/- 3.2 years
- Total score on CMTPedS increased by 4.5 points throughout 2 years
- Average annual progression in the CMT1A subgroup: 2 points
- Average annual deterioration in overall CMT group: 2.25 points
- Significant decline in pinprick sensation score in overall CMT group: 1 year
- Increased BMI in participants: 4.5 points throughout 2 years
Sources:
- Longitudinal Assessment of Natural Disease Progression In Brazilian Children and Adolescents With Charcot-marie-tooth Disease. Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria, 2025;83(08):001-008
- NewsRx. Studies from University of Sao Paulo Update Current Data on Tooth Diseases and Conditions (Longitudinal Assessment of Natural Disease Progression In Brazilian Children and Adolescents With Charcot-marie-tooth Disease). Health & Medicine Week. October 24, 2025; p 695