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Janssen MF, Dewilde S, Wolfe GI, Muppidi S, Phillips G. Psychometric properties of MG-ADL items and MG-ADL score: An assessment of distributional characteristics, validity and factor structure in two large datasets. J Neurol Sci 2024; 463:123135. [PMID: 39068745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Myasthenia Gravis-Activities of Daily Living scale (MG-ADL) is an 8-item outcome measure to assess symptoms and functional limitations in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients. The MG-ADL score is an equally weighted level sum score that is used as primary outcome measures in clinical trials, in clinical practice, and as an end-point in health economic evaluation. This data analysis aims to obtain detailed knowledge of measurement properties of MG-ADL items and the MG-ADL score. METHODS Cross-sectional data from a real-world prospective study (MRW) were combined with longitudinal data from the ADAPT trial. Outcome measures included were MG-ADL, Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis score (QMG), MG 15-item Quality of Life (MG-QOL15r) and EQ-5D-5L. Patients were categorized by their Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) clinical classification. The following measurement properties were assessed: distributional characteristics, inter-item correlation, convergent, known groups and construct validity and internal factor structure. RESULTS Correlations of items within MG-ADL dimensions were moderate, while MG-ADL correlations between comparable MG-QOL15r and QMG items were mixed. Known groups validity for the MG-ADL score was demonstrated for MGFA class. Mean MG-ADL item level scores by MGFA class demonstrated construct validity. PCA, including all four outcome measures, resulted in a nine factor solution. DISCUSSION Psychometric properties of individual MG-ADL items were moderate to good. This study showed that the MG-ADL adequately captures the multidimensional heterogeneous nature of MG. This is, however, accompanied by mixed psychometric performance of the MG-ADL score, which may complicate health economic modelling. REGISTRATION MyRealWorld-MG was registered on November 25, 2019, with registration numberNCT04176211. The ADAPT randomized clinical trial is registered atClinicalTrials.gov(NCT03669588).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu F Janssen
- Section Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Sarah Dewilde
- Services in Health Economics (SHE), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gil I Wolfe
- Dept. of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Univ. at Buffalo/SUNY, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Srikanth Muppidi
- Dept of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Emmert ME, Emmert AS, Goh Q, Cornwall R. Sexual dimorphisms in skeletal muscle: current concepts and research horizons. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 137:274-299. [PMID: 38779763 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00529.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The complex compositional and functional nature of skeletal muscle makes this organ an essential topic of study for biomedical researchers and clinicians. An additional layer of complexity is added with the consideration of sex as a biological variable. Recent research advances have revealed sexual dimorphisms in developmental biology, muscle homeostasis, adaptive responses, and disorders relating to skeletal muscle. Many of the observed sex differences have hormonal and molecular mechanistic underpinnings, whereas others have yet to be elucidated. Future research is needed to investigate the mechanisms dictating sex-based differences in the various aspects of skeletal muscle. As such, it is necessary that skeletal muscle biologists ensure that both female and male subjects are represented in biomedical and clinical studies to facilitate the successful testing and development of therapeutics for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne E Emmert
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
| | - Andrew S Emmert
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
| | - Qingnian Goh
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
| | - Roger Cornwall
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
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Tunçer Çağlayan S, Elibol B, Severcan F, Basar Gursoy E, Tiftikcioglu BI, Gungordu Dalar Z, Celik C, Dai AS, Karaçam S. Insights from CD71 presentation and serum lipid peroxidation in myasthenia gravis - A small cohort study. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 140:112787. [PMID: 39088914 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a multifaceted autoimmune disorder affecting the postsynaptic neuromuscular junction. In this study, we examined CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocyte levels and ratios within peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in MG patients. Additionally, we assessed lymphocytes for the expression of CD71, which functions as a transferrin receptor mediating the uptake of iron into the cells. Building on recent discussions regarding CD20 depletion treatments in MG, we also scrutinized lymphocytes for CD20 expression. Comparative analyses were conducted among healthy controls, newly diagnosed MG patients, those undergoing pyridostigmine treatment alone, and MG patients receiving combination therapies. In the patients, the ratio of CD3+CD4+ T lymphocytes to CD3+ T lymphocytes was found to be decreased compared to the healthy controls, while the ratio of CD3+CD8+ cells to CD3+CD4+ cells increased. An increase in the percentage of CD71-expressing lymphocytes was observed in MG patients compared to the healthy control group, while CD20+ lymphocytes exhibited no statistical changes. Moreover, heightened serum lipid peroxidation levels were found in MG patients. These results suggest a possible relationship between iron metabolism, levels of CD71-expressing cells, and lipid peroxidation in MG. Conversely, pyridostigmine treatment reduced the levels of CD71-expressing cells and lipid peroxidation, suggesting potential immunomodulatory and antioxidant impacts of pyridostigmine in MG, either directly or indirectly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Tunçer Çağlayan
- Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Medical Services and Techniques, Bilecik, Turkey.
| | - Birsen Elibol
- Istanbul Medeniyet University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Feride Severcan
- Altınbaş University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biophysics, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Basar Gursoy
- Bezmialem Vakıf University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Zeynep Gungordu Dalar
- Altınbaş University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceren Celik
- Altınbaş University, Institute of Graduate Studies, Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayse Suna Dai
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevinç Karaçam
- Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Department of Biotechnology, Bilecik, Turkey
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Suresh S, Watanabe M, Reynolds EL, Callaghan BC. Possible sex and racial disparities in myasthenia gravis care. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 39072773 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Given the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG), it is critical to understand disparities in MG care. We aimed to determine if there are any differences in testing, treatment, and/or access to neurologists for patients of varying sex and race/ethnicity with MG. METHODS We used a nationally representative healthcare claims database of privately insured individuals (2001-2018) to identify incident cases of MG using a validated definition. Diagnostic testing, steroid-sparing agents, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), plasma exchange (PLEX), and thymectomy were defined using drug names or CPT codes. Steroid use was defined using AHFS class codes. We also determined whether an individual had a visit to a neurologist and the time between primary care and neurologist visits. Logistic regression determined associations between sex and race/ethnicity and testing, treatments, and access to neurologists. RESULTS Female patients were less likely to get a computed tomography (CT) chest (odds ratio (OR) 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64-0.83), receive steroids (OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.75-0.97), steroid-sparing agents (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.72-0.97), and IVIG or PLEX (OR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67-0.95). Black patients were less likely to receive steroids (OR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.63-0.96). No significant disparities were seen in access to neurologists. DISCUSSION We found healthcare disparities in MG treatment with female and Black patients receiving less treatment than men and those of other races/ethnicities. Further research and detailed assessments accounting for individual patient factors are needed to confirm these apparent disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shriya Suresh
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Maya Watanabe
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Evan L Reynolds
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Brian C Callaghan
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Beland B, Perera T, Lee A, Greenfield J, Korngut L, Jewett G. No sex-based differences in odds of starting or time to treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis: A single center cohort study. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 39054840 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Females with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) report lower quality of life (QoL) and have more severe disease than males. Sex differences in disease characteristics exist, however whether there are sex differences in the treatment of gMG that may contribute to QoL disparities is unknown. Our objective is to determine whether there are sex differences in the treatment of gMG. METHODS We performed a single-center retrospective study of people diagnosed with gMG at the University of Calgary between 1997 and 2021. Primary outcome was proportion starting treatment and secondary outcome was time from diagnosis to treatment initiation. Treatments included pyridostigmine, prednisone, steroid sparing therapies (azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil [MMF], methotrexate [MTX], or tacrolimus), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), plasmapheresis, rituximab, eculizumab, cyclosporine, stem cell transplantation, and thymectomy. Multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine treatment associations with sex, adjusted for time from onset to diagnosis, age at diagnosis, presence of thymoma, and antibody status. RESULTS A total of 179 people with gMG were included (41.9% female). Odds of starting treatment were not statistically associated with sex after adjustment for confounders and correction for multiple testing. Results of the secondary analysis using time to treatment initiation as the outcome were similar. DISCUSSION We found no sex differences in odds of starting treatment or time to treatment initiation that might explain previously observed sex-based differences in QoL. Future work should capture physician and patient treatment preferences that may influence disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Beland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tefani Perera
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Angela Lee
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jamie Greenfield
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lawrence Korngut
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gordon Jewett
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Hoffmann S, Verlohren S, Herdick M. [Myasthenia gravis-Gender aspects and family planning]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:316-328. [PMID: 38499774 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-024-01640-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence that gender-specific differences can influence the diagnostics, treatment and long-term disease course of myasthenia gravis (MG). In women the diagnosis is often made during childbearing age. OBJECTIVE Gender-specific differences in MG and relevant aspects in routine clinical practice are presented. In addition, current studies on family planning, pregnancy and childbirth in MG are highlighted and treatment recommendations are derived. MATERIAL AND METHODS Narrative literature review. RESULTS In addition to sociodemographic data, gender-specific differences encompass clinical as well as paraclinical factors, such as disease severity and antibody status. With few exceptions pregnancy is possible with good maternal and neonatal outcome. During pregnancy and peripartum, children of MG patients should be closely monitored for early detection and treatment of potential syndromes caused by diaplacental transfer of maternal antibodies. CONCLUSION Gender-specific factors can influence the course of MG. Adequate medical counselling and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential for MG patients who wish to have children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hoffmann
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Clinical Research Center (NCRC) and Integrated Myasthenia Gravis Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Stefan Verlohren
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Meret Herdick
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Clinical Research Center (NCRC) and Integrated Myasthenia Gravis Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
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McCallion J, Borsi A, Noel W, Lee J, Karmous W, Sattler S, Boggia GM, Hardy EJ, Mitchell CR, Mitchell SA, Gilhus NE. Systematic review of the patient burden of generalised myasthenia gravis in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. BMC Neurol 2024; 24:61. [PMID: 38336636 PMCID: PMC10858594 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03553-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare autoimmune disease characterised by muscle weakness, and progression from ocular (oMG) to generalised (gMG) symptoms results in a substantial negative impact on quality of life (QoL). This systematic review aimed to provide an overview of the patient burden experienced by people living with gMG. METHODS Electronic database searches (conducted March 2022), supplemented by interrogation of grey literature, were conducted to identify studies reporting patient burden outcomes in patients with gMG in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Results were synthesised narratively due to the heterogeneity across trials. RESULTS In total, 39 patient burden publications (representing 38 unique studies) were identified as relevant for inclusion in the systematic review, consisting of 37 publications reporting formal patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and two publications describing alternative qualitative assessments of patient experience. The studies included a variety of measures including generic and disease-specific PROMs, as well as symptom-specific PROMs focusing on key comorbidities including depression, anxiety, fatigue and sleep disturbance. The findings showed some variation across studies and PROMs; however, in general there was evidence for worse QoL in patients with gMG than in healthy controls or in patients with oMG, and a trend for worsening QoL with increasing MG severity. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the importance of considering patient QoL when developing and assessing treatment and management plans for patients with gMG. However, the heterogeneity identified across studies illustrates the need for further representative and well-powered studies in large cohorts administering consistent, validated questionnaires. TRIAL REGISTRATION The protocol for this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO: CRD42022328444.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A Borsi
- Janssen EMEA, Beerse, Belgium
| | - W Noel
- Janssen EMEA, Beerse, Belgium
| | - J Lee
- Janssen EMEA, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - E J Hardy
- Mtech Access, Bicester, Oxfordshire, UK
| | | | | | - Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
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Pisc J, Ting A, Skornicki M, Sinno O, Lee E. Healthcare resource utilization, costs and treatment associated with myasthenia gravis exacerbations among patients with myasthenia gravis in the USA: a retrospective analysis of claims data. J Comp Eff Res 2024; 13:e230108. [PMID: 38099519 PMCID: PMC10842297 DOI: 10.57264/cer-2023-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: There are limited data on the clinical and economic burden of exacerbations in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). We assessed patient clinical characteristics, treatments and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) associated with MG exacerbation. Patients & methods: This was a retrospective analysis of adult patients with MG identified by commercial, Medicare or Medicaid insurance claims from the IBM® MarketScan® database. Eligible patients had two or more MG diagnosis codes, without evidence of exacerbation or crisis in the baseline period (12 months prior to index [first eligible MG diagnosis]). Clinical characteristics were evaluated at baseline and 12 weeks before each exacerbation. Number of exacerbations, MG treatments and HCRU costs associated with exacerbation were described during a 2-year follow-up period. Results: Among 9352 prevalent MG patients, 34.4% (n = 3218) experienced ≥1 exacerbation after index: commercial, 53.0% (n = 1706); Medicare, 39.4% (n = 1269); and Medicaid, 7.6% (n = 243). During follow-up, the mean (standard deviation) number of exacerbations per commercial and Medicare patient was 3.7 (7.0) and 2.7 (4.1), respectively. At least two exacerbations were experienced by approximately half of commercial and Medicare patients with ≥1 exacerbation. Mean total MG-related healthcare costs per exacerbation ranged from $26,078 to $51,120, and from $19,903 to $49,967 for commercial and Medicare patients, respectively. AChEI use decreased in patients with multiple exacerbations, while intravenous immunoglobulin use increased with multiple exacerbations. Conclusion: Despite utilization of current treatments for MG, MG exacerbations are associated with a high clinical and economic burden in both commercial and Medicare patients. Additional treatment options and improved disease management may help to reduce exacerbations and disease burden.
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Wilcke H, Glaubitz S, Kück F, Anten C, Liebetanz D, Schmidt J, Zschüntzsch J. Female sex and overweight are associated with a lower quality of life in patients with myasthenia gravis: a single center cohort study. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:366. [PMID: 37817097 PMCID: PMC10563278 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03406-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) affects individuals as a chronic autoimmune disease for many years. Commonly, chronic diseases significantly reduce the patients' quality of life. Aiming to improve the future quality of life in MG, this study assessed the factors impacting quality of life. As gender-specific medicine is becoming increasingly important, this study also focused on understanding gender differences in the outcome of MG. METHODS The study is a combined monocentric, retrospective and prospective database analysis of patient records based on 2,370 presentations of 165 patients with clinically, serologically and/or electrophysiologically confirmed MG over an observation period of up to 47 years. The data collection included the following parameters: antibody status, disease severity, age, medication use, gender, and disease duration. In addition, a prospective survey was conducted on the quality of life using the Myasthenia gravis-specific 15-item Quality of Life scale (MG-QoL15) and on the activities of daily living using the MG-specific Activities of Daily Living scale (MG-ADL). RESULTS Of the 165 patients, 85 were male (51.5%) and 80 were female (48.5%). The remaining baseline characteristics (e.g. age and antibody status) were consistent with other myasthenia gravis cohorts. A high body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.005) and a high disease severity (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower disease-specific quality of life. Additionally, the quality of life in women with MG was significantly reduced compared to male patients (19.7 vs. 13.0 points in the MG-QoL15, p = 0.024). Gender differences were also observable in terms of the period between initial manifestation and initial diagnosis and women were significantly more impaired in their activities of daily living (MG-ADL) than men (4.8 vs. 3.0 points, p = 0.032). CONCLUSION Women with MG had significantly poorer disease specific quality of life compared to men as well as patients with a higher BMI. In order to improve the quality of life, gender-specific medicine and further investigation regarding a modification of the quality of life by lowering the BMI are essential and necessary. TRIAL REGISTRATION Study approval by the Ethics Committee of the University Medical Center Göttingen was granted (number 6/5/18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Wilcke
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Glaubitz
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Fabian Kück
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Anten
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David Liebetanz
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jens Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Pain Treatment, Immanuel Clinic Rüdersdorf, University Hospital of the Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
| | - Jana Zschüntzsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
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Yaman A, Kurtuluş Aydın F. Therapeutic and prognostic features in myasthenia gravis patients followed in a tertiary neuromuscular diseases center in Turkey. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1176636. [PMID: 37602241 PMCID: PMC10436092 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1176636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In this study, we aim to evaluate the treatment responses and prognostic characteristics of Myasthenia Gravis (MG) patients followed in a tertiary neuromuscular diseases center in Turkey. Methods One hundred seventy four MG patients (between years 2011 and 2022) in Antalya, Turkey were diagnosed, and evaluated on a classification of MG was based on Myasthenia. Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) clinical classification. Exclusion of other possible diseases in the differential diagnosis and support by beneficial response to treatment with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors were also taken into consideration. Results Mean age of participants was 54.86 (SD = 14.856; min-max = 22-84). Ninety (51.7%) were female. MG was more common in women under the age of 65 (58%) and in men over the age of 65 (64%). Generalized MG was seen in 75.3% of the patients. Anti-AChR positivities were detected in 52.3%, Anti-MuSK positivity in 4.6%, and seronegativity in 22.4%. Thymoma was detected in nearly 9.8% and thymectomy was performed in 28.7 percent. Most of the patients (57.5%) were using corticosteroids. Azathioprine was used by 39% and mycophenolate mofetil by 10.3% of patients. Mortality was higher and disease was more severe in late-onset (>50 years) MG patients (especially in the COVID-19 pandemic). Eight patients (four women, four men, mean age 75.5 years) died during follow-up. None of them died due to myasthenic worsening, two died due to malignancy and two due to infection. During the COVID pandemic, 16 patients (9.2%) had COVID infection. Four patients died due to COVID-19 infection, these four patients had serious comorbidities, and three of them were elderly (>75 years). Conclusion In conclusion, MG is more common in women between the ages of 20-40 and in men over the age of 65. The use of corticosteroids was more common under the age of 50, and the use of non-steroidal immunosuppressant agents was more common over the age of 50. Thymectomy is still an important supportive treatment approach in anti-AChR positive and seronegative generalized patients under 50 years of age. IVIG and plasmapheresis are effective treatments during acute exacerbations and bridging periods of treatments. Specific treatments are needed especially for resistant group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Yaman
- Neurology Department, Antalya Training and Research Hospital, Antalya, Türkiye
| | - Fatma Kurtuluş Aydın
- Neurology Department, Antalya Training and Research Hospital, Antalya, Türkiye
- Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Türkiye
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Sanders DB, Lutz MW, Raja SM, Juel VC, Guptill JT, Hobson-Webb LD, Massey JM. The Duke Myasthenia Gravis Clinic Registry: II. Analysis of outcomes. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:291-296. [PMID: 36734303 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The Duke Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Clinic Registry contains comprehensive physician-derived data on patients with MG seen in the Duke MG Clinic since 1980. The aim of this study was to report outcomes in patients seen in the clinic and treated according to the International Consensus Guidance statements. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study of patients initially seen after 2000 and followed for at least 2 years in the clinic. Treatment goal (TG) was defined as achieving MGFA post-intervention status of "minimal manifestations" or better; PIS was determined by the treating neurologist. Time-to-event analysis, including Cox proportional hazards modeling, was performed to assess the effect of sex, acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR-Ab) status, age at disease onset, distribution (ocular vs generalized), thymectomy, and thymoma on the time to achieve TG. RESULTS Among the 367 cohort patients, 72% achieved TG (median time less than 2 years). A greater proportion of patients with AChR-Abs and thymectomy achieved TG and they did so sooner than patients without these antibodies or thymectomy. Otherwise, there were no significant differences in these findings within the tested subgroups. The disease duration at the first Duke Clinic visit was shorter in patients who achieved TG than in those who did not. DISCUSSION These results demonstrate outcomes that can be achieved in patients with MG treated according to the current Consensus Guidance statements. Among other things, they can be used to determine the added value and potential role of new treatment modalities developed since 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald B Sanders
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michael W Lutz
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Shruti M Raja
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Vern C Juel
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jeffrey T Guptill
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Lisa D Hobson-Webb
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Janice M Massey
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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12
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Vinciguerra C, Iacono S, Bevilacqua L, Landolfi A, Piscosquito G, Ginanneschi F, Schirò G, Di Stefano V, Brighina F, Barone P, Balistreri CR. Sex differences in neuromuscular disorders. Mech Ageing Dev 2023; 211:111793. [PMID: 36806604 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2023.111793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence, onset, pathophysiology, and clinical course of many neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) may significantly differ between males and females. Some NMDs are more frequently observed in females, and characterized to show a higher grade of severity during or after the pregnancy. Meanwhile, others tend to have an earlier onset in males and exhibit a more variable progression. Prevalently, sex differences in NMDs have a familiar character given from genetic inheritance. However, they may also influence clinical presentation and disease severity of acquired NMD forms, and are represented by both hormonal and genetic factors. Consequently, to shed light on the distinctive role of biological factors in the different clinical phenotypes, we summarize in this review the sex related differences and their distinctive biological roles emerging from the current literature in both acquired and inherited NMDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Vinciguerra
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84131 Salerno, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Iacono
- Neurology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Liliana Bevilacqua
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84131 Salerno, Italy
| | - Annamaria Landolfi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84131 Salerno, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piscosquito
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84131 Salerno, Italy
| | - Federica Ginanneschi
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Schirò
- Neurology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Neurology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Filippo Brighina
- Neurology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Barone
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84131 Salerno, Italy
| | - Carmela Rita Balistreri
- Cellular and Molecular Laboratory, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo
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13
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Remijn-Nelissen L, Verschuuren JJGM, Tannemaat MR. The effectiveness and side effects of pyridostigmine in the treatment of myasthenia gravis: a cross-sectional study. Neuromuscul Disord 2022; 32:790-799. [PMID: 36184373 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Pyridostigmine is the most commonly used drug in the symptomatic treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG); however, research into its effectiveness and side effects is scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness, prevalence of side effects and net benefit of pyridostigmine. All MG patients participating in the Dutch-Belgian myasthenia patient registry were included. A dynamic online questionnaire was developed to assess the effectiveness, side effects and net benefit of pyridostigmine. Out of 642 invited patients, 410 patients (64%) fully completed the questionnaire; 61% reported that they currently used pyridostigmine, 36% had discontinued pyridostigmine and 2% reported to never have used pyridostigmine. Patients reported a median effectiveness of 60, IQR 28-78 and net benefit of 65, IQR 45-84. Of all patients currently using pyridostigmine, 91% reported side effects (vs. 55% in the control group). Most frequently reported side effects were flatulence, urinary urgency, muscle cramps, blurred vision and hyperhidrosis. In the group of patients who discontinued pyridostigmine, side effects were the reason for discontinuation in 26%. Diarrhea, abdominal cramps and muscle twitching were the most frequently cited reasons to discontinue pyridostigmine. These results can be used to guide shared decision making prior to starting symptomatic treatment for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Remijn-Nelissen
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jan J G M Verschuuren
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn R Tannemaat
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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14
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Gable KL, Hobson-Webb LD. What is the significance of gender difference in myasthenia gravis? Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:515-516. [PMID: 34383342 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karissa L Gable
- Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lisa D Hobson-Webb
- Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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