MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

Which of the following disabilities is degenerative and often leads to death in adolescence or early adulthood?

1. Muscular dystrophy

2. Epilepsy

3. Type 1 diabetes

4. Spina bifida

The correct answer is: Muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. These conditions stem from mutations in the genes responsible for muscle structure and function. The most common form, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, typically manifests in young boys and leads to a rapid decline in physical capabilities. Unfortunately, the disease usually results in severe complications, including respiratory and cardiac failure, which often leads to premature death in adolescence or early adulthood. In contrast, epilepsy can often be managed with medication and might not have a degenerative trajectory. Type 1 diabetes, while serious, involves ongoing management that allows individuals to live into adulthood, albeit with potential health complications. Spina bifida manifests as a neural tube defect and can lead to various challenges, but it does not necessarily follow a degenerative course that leads to early death. Thus, muscular dystrophy stands out as the condition most associated with degenerative characteristics and an associated risk of early mortality.