What causes muscular dystrophy when kids have it ?

Genetics: Muscular dystrophies are caused by mutations in the genes responsible for making the components of muscle. Sometimes these mutations are sporadic, while in other cases there is a family history. A neurologist or geneticist can help you determine the specifics of your case and if genetic testing of the patient or their family members might be useful.

The same as adults: Anyone with a muscular dystrophy has some type of genetic defect that led to it. Some have an earlier onset and so appear in childhood, and others have a later onset and may not be obvious until later in life.