Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

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Definition

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a group of hereditary disorders that affect the nerves in your arms and legs, causing muscle weakness and decreased muscle bulk, as well as decreased sensation. Symptoms may vary widely in severity, even among family members, but tend to very slowly worsen over time.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth symptoms usually begin in your feet and legs, but may also eventually affect your hands and arms. Foot deformities such as hammertoes and high arches are common in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Muscle weakness and loss of balance can make walking difficult.

According to the National Institutes of Health, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease affects about one person in 2,500. Symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease typically appear in adolescence or early adulthood.

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Symptoms