Analysis of spinal muscular atrophy patients from the spinal muscular atrophy and muscular dystrophy registry of Pakistan

BackgroundSpinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) leads to motor neuron loss, with progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Nationwide registries for neuromuscular diseases are pivotal for assessing epidemiology, preparing for clinical trials, and for adopting standardized management guidelines.ObjectivesThis paper aims to present data gathered during the establishment of Pakistan's inaugural registry for genetically confirmed SMA cases.MethodsIn this retrospective study, 215 participants with genetically confirmed SMA were recruited. Telephonic interviews were conducted to collect data for the Muscular Disease Registry of Pakistan that was analyzed using STATA version 17.0.ResultsSMA type 1 was the most common type (71.2%, n = 153). Amongst patients who were tested for survival motor neuron (<i>SMN2</i>) copies, the majority (84.4%, n = 168) had two <i>SMN2</i> copies. SMA types were significantly associated with the ability to sit (p < 0.001) and walk (p < 0.001), and usage of a wheelchair (p = 0.0054). <i>SMN2</i> copy numbers were significantly associated with the ability to sit (p = 0.020) and walk (p = 0.031).ConclusionsThis study highlights the high prevalence of SMA genotypes and phenotypes associated with severe disease in our population. Our findings reiterate the challenging prognosis for Pakistani children with SMA and underscore the necessity of the development of nationwide newborn screening programs and making treatments available.