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Spinal Muscular Atrophy Distal Autosomal Recessive 6 C5774201

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A genetic neuromuscular disorder causing muscle weakness and wasting, usually beginning in infancy or early childhood. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Treatment focuses on supportive care, physical therapy, and newer gene-targeted therapies.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G12.9
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Respiratory insufficiency

Distal muscle weakness

(neurologic)

Generalized symptoms

(neurologic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Motor regression

(neurologic)

Scoliosis

(neurologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Disease-Modifying Gene Therapy

SMN2 splicing modifiers such as nusinersen or risdiplam increase functional SMN protein production. These FDA-approved therapies target the underlying genetic defect and represent the standard of care for eligible SMA patients.

medication
3

Multidisciplinary Physical and Occupational Therapy

Ongoing PT/OT focusing on strength preservation, range of motion, functional mobility, and ADL independence. Therapy adapts to disease stage with emphasis on maintaining abilities rather than restoring lost function.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Respiratory Management and Support

Proactive respiratory care including cough assist devices, airway clearance techniques, and nocturnal non-invasive ventilation as needed. Pulmonary function monitoring guides timing of intervention.

procedure

Orthopedic Intervention

Surgical management of scoliosis, hip subluxation, or contractures when conservative measures fail. Spinal fusion may be required for progressive curves exceeding 50 degrees. Timing of surgery balances pulmonary function.

surgical

Nutritional Support and Dysphagia Management

Registered dietitian evaluation for weight maintenance, vitamin supplementation, and dysphagia management. Modified food textures or gastrostomy tube feeding may be necessary as bulbar function declines.

dietary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy Distal Autosomal Recessive 6 C5774201?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Mercuri E, Finkel RS, Muntoni F, et al. Diagnosis and management of spinal muscular atrophy: part 1: recommendations of the SPMA Care Group. Neuromuscul Disord. 2021.

guideline2021
2

Arnold WD, Burghes AH. Spinal muscular atrophy: pathogenesis and treatment. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2020.

review2020
3

Finkel RS, Mercuri E, Darras BT, et al. Nusinersen versus sham control in infantile-onset spinal muscular atrophy. N Engl J Med. 2017.

clinical_trial2017
4

Schoenmakers D, Scheuermann Y, Goh C, et al. Gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Spinal Muscular Atrophy Distal Autosomal Recessive 6 C5774201. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy