Computer-aided visualization of muscle weakness distribution.

Abstract

We present a computer program for visualizing muscle weakness distribution in patients with neuromuscular disorders. Ordinal muscle strength data can be computed in the program. Data are visualized as the prime movers of the testmovements in an image of the human body and a separate image of the face. Severity is indicated in shades of grey and black indicates complete loss of muscle power. This visualization facilitates the diagnosis and follow-up of patients and is an excellent tool for patient education. Moreover, the program can also be used to investigate and further refine the phenotypic description of these disorders.