A case of chronic childhood spinal muscular atrophy

Abstract

The patient described here was diagnosed as having chronic childhood spinal muscular atrophy at the age of 10 months, but he lived to the age of 35 years. At no time in his life did he have any voluntary muscular activity except in his face. However, his accomplishments would be creditable if achieved by a normal person. With the remarkable and devoted help of his family and friends, he was able to overcome a severe handicap and succeed in his endeavors. In this vein, rather than in a strictly scientific manner, Dr Livingston presents the case.