Zenker's degeneration

Zenker's degeneration is a type of muscle degeneration that is characterized by the presence of hyaline material in the muscle fibers. It is named after the German pathologist Friedrich Albert von Zenker, who first described the condition in 1856.

Causes

Zenker's degeneration is typically caused by severe or prolonged muscle ischemia, which is a lack of blood flow to the muscle tissue. This can occur as a result of various conditions, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. In some cases, Zenker's degeneration may also be caused by certain infections, autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Zenker's degeneration can vary depending on the severity and location of the muscle degeneration. Common symptoms may include muscle weakness, muscle pain, and muscle atrophy. In severe cases, Zenker's degeneration can lead to paralysis or death.

Diagnosis

Zenker's degeneration is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. This may include blood tests to check for elevated levels of creatine kinase, a marker of muscle damage, and biopsy of the affected muscle tissue to confirm the presence of hyaline material.

Treatment

The treatment for Zenker's degeneration primarily involves managing the underlying cause of the muscle ischemia. This may include medication, surgery, or other interventions to improve blood flow to the muscle tissue. In some cases, physical therapy may also be recommended to help improve muscle strength and function.

See also

• Muscle disorders
• Ischemia
• Hyaline

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