Effect of sodium selenite and vitamin E treatment in myotonic dystrophy.

Fifteen patients with myotonic dystrophy, seven men and eight women, of age range 15-55 years, were treated with sodium selenite and vitamin E for 2 years. The patients were examined using a number of tests to assess muscle force and function at the start of the treatment period and 6, 12 and 24 months thereafter. Myotonia gives an increased relaxation time. The latter was measured in the adductor pollicis. There was a significant decrease in half relaxation time before treatment compared with the values during treatment. In summary, the results indicate that selenium and vitamin E therapy may have an effect on myotonia. The effects of treatment on motor functions were minimal, and overall motor performance was not improved.