During the early childhood stage of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (ages 2-5), which finding is commonly observed?

• A. Delayed/difficult motor milestones
• B. Calf pseudohypertrophy
• C. Normal gait
• D. No calf changes

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that Duchenne muscular dystrophy begins with proximal muscle weakness that first disrupts a child’s ability to achieve motor milestones. In the 2–5 year age range, the most common finding is delayed or difficult motor milestones—children may have trouble sitting independently, standing, or walking at the usual ages, and they often require more time or support to develop these skills. This reflects early involvement of hip and thigh muscles and the beginning of progressive weakness. Calf pseudohypertrophy can develop as the disease progresses and fat replaces muscle, so some kids may show calf enlargement, but it’s not as consistently present as milestone delay in this early window. A normal gait would be unlikely given the underlying weakness, and no calf changes would contradict the typical progression of the condition.