PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Childs, Anne-Marie AU - Turner, Catherine AU - Astin, Ronan AU - Bianchi, Stephen AU - Bourke, John AU - Cunningham, Vicki AU - Edel, Lisa AU - Edwards, Christopher AU - Farrant, Phillippa AU - Heraghty, Jane AU - James, Meredith AU - Massey, Charlotte AU - Messer, Ben AU - Michel Sodhi, Jassi AU - Murphy, Patrick Brian AU - Schiava, Marianela AU - Thomas, Ajit AU - Trucco, Federica AU - Guglieri, Michela TI - Development of respiratory care guidelines for Duchenne muscular dystrophy in the UK: key recommendations for clinical practice AID - 10.1136/thorax-2023-220811 DP - 2024 May 01 TA - Thorax PG - 476--485 VI - 79 IP - 5 4099 - http://thorax.bmj.com/content/79/5/476.short 4100 - http://thorax.bmj.com/content/79/5/476.full SO - Thorax2024 May 01; 79 AB - Significant inconsistencies in respiratory care provision for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are reported across different specialist neuromuscular centres in the UK. The absence of robust clinical evidence and expert consensus is a barrier to the implementation of care recommendations in public healthcare systems as is the need to increase awareness of key aspects of care for those living with DMD. Here, we provide evidenced-based and/or consensus-based best practice for the respiratory care of children and adults living with DMD in the UK, both as part of routine care and in an emergency.Methodology Initiated by an expert working group of UK-based respiratory physicians (including British Thoracic Society (BTS) representatives), neuromuscular clinicians, physiotherapist and patient representatives, draft guidelines were created based on published evidence, current practice and expert opinion. After wider consultation with UK respiratory teams and neuromuscular services, consensus was achieved on these best practice recommendations for respiratory care in DMD.Result The resulting recommendations are presented in the form of a flow chart for assessment and monitoring, with additional guidance and a separate chart setting out key considerations for emergency management. The recommendations have been endorsed by the BTS.Conclusions These guidelines provide practical, reasoned recommendations for all those managing day-to-day and acute respiratory care in children and adults with DMD. The hope is that this will support patients and healthcare professionals in accessing high standards of care across the UK.