Muscular dystrophy is primarily characterized by which of the following?

Muscular dystrophy is primarily characterized by progressive weakness from degeneration of muscle fibers. This condition involves a group of inherited disorders that lead to muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. As muscle fibers degenerate, individuals experience a gradual decline in muscle strength and function, which can significantly affect mobility and daily activities. The progressive nature of the weakness is a hallmark feature of muscular dystrophy, distinguishing it from other conditions that may cause muscle impairment.

Other options may describe conditions that affect different bodily systems or functions, but they do not accurately reflect the core characteristic of muscular dystrophy. For example, while cerebrospinal fluid enlargement pertains to certain neurological conditions, it does not relate to muscle degeneration. Impairments in social communication may be associated with developmental disorders like autism but are not a feature of muscular dystrophy. Lastly, while many forms of muscular dystrophy are hereditary, it is the progressive muscle weakening that defines the disorder itself.