In Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, which sign is often referenced as an early indicator?

• A. Babinski sign
• B. Gower's sign
• C. Clonus
• D. Hoffman's sign

Answer: (B)

Gower's sign is recognized as an early indicator of Duchenne's muscular dystrophy (DMD) due to its specific manifestations in affected children. This sign occurs when a child, who is experiencing muscle weakness, particularly in the proximal muscles, has difficulty getting up from a sitting or lying position. To compensate for this weakness, the child typically uses their hands to "walk" up their own body, often pushing off their thighs to help them stand.

This behavior arises because the muscles that are normally used for standing become significantly weakened as the condition progresses. By observing Gower's sign, clinicians can identify the onset of muscle weakness that characterizes DMD, allowing for earlier intervention and management strategies. The other signs listed, such as the Babinski sign or clonus, are either related to other neurological issues or are not characteristic indicators for the early stages of muscular dystrophy.