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Neumann B, Angstwurm K, Dohmen C, Mergenthaler P, Kohler S, Schönenberger S, Lee DH, Gerner ST, Huttner HB, Thieme A, Steinbrecher A, Dunkel J, Roth C, Schneider H, Reichmann H, Fuhrer H, Kleiter I, Schneider-Gold C, Alberty A, Zinke J, Schroeter M, Linker R, Meisel A, Bösel J, Stetefeld HR. Weaning and extubation failure in myasthenic crisis: a multicenter analysis. J Neurol 2024; 271:564-574. [PMID: 37923937 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12016-2] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenic crisis (MC) requiring mechanical ventilation is a serious complication of myasthenia gravis (MG). Here we analyze the frequency and risk factors of weaning- and extubation failure as well as its impact on the clinical course in a large cohort. We performed a retrospective chart review on patients treated for MC in 12 German neurological departments between 2006 and 2015. Weaning failure (WF) was defined as negative spontaneous breathing trial, primary tracheostomy, or extubation failure (EF) (reintubation or death). WF occurred in 138 episodes (64.2%). Older Age (p = 0.039), multiple comorbidities (≥ 3) (p = 0.007, OR = 4.04), late-onset MG (p = 0.004, OR = 2.84), complications like atelectasis (p = 0.008, OR = 3.40), pneumonia (p < 0.0001, OR = 3.45), cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (p = 0.005, OR = 5.00) and sepsis (p = 0.02, OR = 2.57) were associated with WF. WF occurred often in patients treated with intravenous immungloblins (IVIG) (p = 0.002, OR = 2.53), whereas WF was less often under first-line therapy with plasma exchange or immunoadsorption (p = 0.07, OR = 0.57). EF was observed in 58 of 135 episodes (43.0%) after first extubation attempt and was related with prolonged mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit stay and hospital stay (p ≤ 0.0001 for all). Extubation success was most likely in a time window for extubation between day 7 and 12 after intubation (p = 0.06, OR = 2.12). We conclude that WF and EF occur very often in MC and are associated with poor outcome. Older age, multiple comorbidities and development of cardiac and pulmonary complications are associated with a higher risk of WF and EF. Our data suggest that WF occurs less frequently under first-line plasma exchange/immunoadsorption compared with first-line use of IVIG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Neumann
- Department of Neurology, Donau-Isar-Klinikum Deggendorf, Deggendorf, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Klemens Angstwurm
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christian Dohmen
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
- Department for Neurology and Neurological Intensive Care Medicine, LVR-Klinik Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp Mergenthaler
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Siegfried Kohler
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Sana Klinikum Landkreis Biberach, Biberach, Germany
| | | | - De-Hyung Lee
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan T Gerner
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsklinikum Gießen Und Marburg, Gießen, Germany
| | - Hagen B Huttner
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsklinikum Gießen Und Marburg, Gießen, Germany
| | - Andrea Thieme
- Department of Neurology, HELIOS Klinikum Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
| | | | - Juliane Dunkel
- Department of Neurology, DRK-Kliniken Nordhessen, Kassel, Germany
| | - Christian Roth
- Department of Neurology, DRK-Kliniken Nordhessen, Kassel, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Kassel General Hospital, Kassel, Germany
| | - Hauke Schneider
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Heinz Reichmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hannah Fuhrer
- Department of Neurology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, HELIOS Klinik Mühlheim, Mühlheim, Germany
| | - Ingo Kleiter
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Marianne-Strauß-Klinik, Behandlungszentrum Kempfenhausen für Multiple Sklerose Kranke gGmbH, Berg, Germany
| | | | - Anke Alberty
- Department of Neurology, Kliniken Maria Hilf GmbH Moenchengladbach, Moenchengladbach, Germany
| | - Jan Zinke
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Schroeter
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ralf Linker
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Meisel
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julian Bösel
- Department of Neurology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Henning R Stetefeld
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany.
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Swain A, Sahu S, Sam M, Nag DS. Myasthenia Gravis for Spine Surgery: An Ardous Anaesthetic Journey. Cureus 2023; 15:e50695. [PMID: 38234942 PMCID: PMC10791574 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neurological disorder involving the post-synaptic neuromuscular junction and is caused by the autoimmune destruction of acetylcholine receptors with ensuing muscular weakness. Rarely is the disease process in MG compounded with other comorbidities and distinctive surgical challenges, such as the prone position in spine surgery, presenting unique challenges in the anesthetic management of such cases. This case series and the ensuing discussion describe the successful perioperative management of two cases of MG undergoing neuro-surgical management for lumbar spine pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amlan Swain
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
| | - Seelora Sahu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
| | - Merina Sam
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
| | - Deb Sanjay Nag
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
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Claytor B, Cho SM, Li Y. Myasthenic crisis. Muscle Nerve 2023. [PMID: 37114503 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenic crisis (MC) is a life-threatening manifestation of myasthenia gravis (MG) defined by respiratory insufficiency that requires the use of invasive or non-invasive ventilation. This is often the result of respiratory muscle weakness but can also be due to bulbar weakness with upper airway collapse. MC occurs in approximately 15%-20% of patients with MG usually within the first 2 to 3 y of the disease course. Many crises have a specific trigger with respiratory infections being most common; however, no specific trigger is found in 30%-40% of patients. MG patients with a history of MC, severe disease, oropharyngeal weakness, muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) antibodies and thymoma appear to be at higher risk. Most episodes of MC do not occur suddenly, providing a window of opportunity for prevention. Immediate treatment is directed toward airway management and removing any identified triggers. Plasmapheresis is preferred over intravenous immune globulin as the treatments of choice for MC. The majority of patients are able to be weaned from mechanical ventilation within 1 mo and the outcomes of MC are generally favorable. The mortality rate in United States cohorts is less than 5% and mortality in MC seems to be driven by age and other medical co-morbidities. MC does not appear to affect long-term prognosis as many patients are able to eventually achieve good MG control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Claytor
- Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Sung-Min Cho
- Division of Neuroscience Critical Care, Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yuebing Li
- Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Vanoli F, Mantegazza R. Antibody Therapies in Autoimmune Neuromuscular Junction Disorders: Approach to Myasthenic Crisis and Chronic Management. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:897-910. [PMID: 35165857 PMCID: PMC9294078 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01181-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neurological autoimmune disorder characterized by muscle weakness and fatigue. It is a B cell-mediated disease caused by pathogenic antibodies directed against various components of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Despite the wide range of adverse effects, current treatment is still based on non-specific immunosuppression, particularly on long-term steroid usage. The increasing knowledge regarding the pathogenic mechanisms of MG has however allowed to create more target-specific therapies. A very attractive therapeutic approach is currently offered by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), given their ability to specifically and effectively target different immunopathological pathways, such as the complement cascade, B cell-related cluster of differentiation (CD) proteins, and the human neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). Up to now, eculizumab, a C5-directed mAb, has been approved for the treatment of generalized MG (gMG) and efgartigimod, a FcRn inhibitor, has just been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive gMG. Other mAbs are currently under investigation with encouraging preliminary results, further enriching the new range of therapeutic possibilities for MG. This review article provides an overview of the present status of mAb-based therapies for MG, which offer an exciting promise for better outcomes by setting the basis of a precision medicine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiammetta Vanoli
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disease Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disease Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.
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Berta E, Confalonieri P, Simoncini O, Bernardi G, Busnach G, Mantegazza R, Cornelio F, Antozzi C. Removal of antiacetylcholine receptor antibodies by protein-A immunoadsorption in myasthenia gravis. Int J Artif Organs 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/039139889401701109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease in which autoantibodies to the acetylcholine receptor interfere with neuromuscular transmission. Plasma exchange is effective in temporarily relieving the symptoms of the disease, but for repeated use the lack of selectivity and need for replacement fluids (which increases the risk of contracting viral diseases) are important drawbacks. Staphylococcal protein A, a potent ligand for immunoglobulins, that interacts negligibly with other plasma proteins, appears to be an optimal candidate for removing antiacetylcholine receptor antibodies, which are mostly IgG. We treated three patients with severe immunosuppression-resistant myasthenia gravis with protein A immunoadsorption. Neurological impairment significantly improved in all patients. After immunoadsorption of 1.5-2 plasma volumes per session, the mean percentage reductions for serum IgG and specific autoantibodies were 71% and 82% respectively. No major side effects occurred. Protein A immunoadsorption appears to be a safe, efficient and effective alternative to plasmaexchange for selected myasthenic patients requiring prolonged apheresis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Berta
- Neuromuscular Research Center, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
| | - P. Confalonieri
- Neuromuscular Research Center, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
| | - O. Simoncini
- Neuromuscular Research Center, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
| | - G. Bernardi
- Department of Laboratory Investigations, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
| | - G. Busnach
- Department of Nephrology, Ospedale Niguarda Ca' Granda, Milano - Italy
| | - R. Mantegazza
- Neuromuscular Research Center, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
| | - F. Cornelio
- Neuromuscular Research Center, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
| | - C. Antozzi
- Neuromuscular Research Center, National Neurological Institute “C. Besta”, Milano
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Liu Z, Yao S, Zhou Q, Deng Z, Zou J, Feng H, Zhu H, Cheng C. Predictors of extubation outcomes following myasthenic crisis. J Int Med Res 2016; 44:1524-1533. [PMID: 27856933 PMCID: PMC5536745 DOI: 10.1177/0300060516669893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Myasthenic crisis (MC) is considered the most severe adverse event in patients with myasthenia gravis. The present retrospective study was performed to evaluate the predictors of clinical outcomes in patients with MC. Methods The medical charts of 33 patients (19 women, 14 men) with 76 MC attacks from 2002 to 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Early extubation (≤7 days) and prolonged ventilation (>15 days) during the MC were used to assess patient outcomes. Results Among the 33 patients, 24 (72.7%) had positive acetylcholine receptor antibody test results and 20 (60.6%) experienced recurrent MC attacks (≥2 episodes) during follow-up (median 83.6 months, range 1.5-177 months). Plasma exchange during an MC was significantly associated with early extubation. Male sex, older age (>50 years), atelectasis, and ventilator-associated pneumonia significantly contributed to prolonged ventilation. In 22 patients who underwent thymectomy, both the duration between MC attacks and the mean number of MC attacks were significantly reduced after surgery. Conclusions Plasma exchange during MC attacks was found to be important for early extubation; older patients and those with atelectasis or ventilator-associated pneumonia were more vulnerable to prolonged ventilation. Thymectomy may be useful to prevent recurrence of MC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenguo Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shiyuan Yao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhensheng Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianyong Zou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huiyu Feng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chao Cheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Mantegazza R, Cordiglieri C, Consonni A, Baggi F. Animal models of myasthenia gravis: utility and limitations. Int J Gen Med 2016; 9:53-64. [PMID: 27019601 PMCID: PMC4786081 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s88552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease caused by the immune attack of the neuromuscular junction. Antibodies directed against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) induce receptor degradation, complement cascade activation, and postsynaptic membrane destruction, resulting in functional reduction in AChR availability. Besides anti-AChR antibodies, other autoantibodies are known to play pathogenic roles in MG. The experimental autoimmune MG (EAMG) models have been of great help over the years in understanding the pathophysiological role of specific autoantibodies and T helper lymphocytes and in suggesting new therapies for prevention and modulation of the ongoing disease. EAMG can be induced in mice and rats of susceptible strains that show clinical symptoms mimicking the human disease. EAMG models are helpful for studying both the muscle and the immune compartments to evaluate new treatment perspectives. In this review, we concentrate on recent findings on EAMG models, focusing on their utility and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV Unit, Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disorders, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Cordiglieri
- Neurology IV Unit, Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disorders, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Consonni
- Neurology IV Unit, Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disorders, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy
| | - Fulvio Baggi
- Neurology IV Unit, Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disorders, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy
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Antozzi C. Immunoadsorption in patients with autoimmune ion channel disorders of the peripheral nervous system. ATHEROSCLEROSIS SUPP 2013; 14:219-22. [PMID: 23357168 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosissup.2012.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune ion channel disorders of the peripheral nervous system include myasthenia gravis, the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, acquired neuromyotonia and autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathies. These disorders are characterized by the common feature of being mediated by IgG autoantibodies against identified target antigens, i.e. the acetylcholine receptor, the voltage-gated calcium and potassium channels, and the neuronal acetylcholine receptor. Moreover, experimental animal models have been identified for these diseases that respond to immunotherapy and are improved by plasmapheresis. On this basis, autoimmune ion channel disorders represent the ideal candidate for therapeutic apheresis. Immunoadsorption can be the treatment of choice when intensive apheretic protocols or long-term treatments must be performed, in patients needing frequent apheresis to keep a stable clinical condition, in case of unresponsiveness to corticosteroids and immunosuppressive treatments, or failure with TPE or intravenous immunoglobulins, and in patients with severe contraindications to long-term corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Antozzi
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, National Neurological Institute Foundation Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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Baggi F, Antozzi C, Toscani C, Cordiglieri C. Acetylcholine Receptor-Induced Experimental Myasthenia Gravis: What Have We Learned from Animal Models After Three Decades? Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2011; 60:19-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s00005-011-0158-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Köhler W, Bucka C, Klingel R. A randomized and controlled study comparing immunoadsorption and plasma exchange in myasthenic crisis. J Clin Apher 2011; 26:347-55. [DOI: 10.1002/jca.20317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2011] [Accepted: 09/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Cavalcante P, Le Panse R, Berrih-aknin S, Maggi L, Antozzi C, Baggi F, Bernasconi P, Mantegazza R. The thymus in myasthenia gravis: Site of “innate autoimmunity”? Muscle Nerve 2011; 44:467-84. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.22103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Critical care of myasthenia gravis in a resource poor setting: a study of South East Nigeria. Neurologist 2011; 16:368-70. [PMID: 21150385 DOI: 10.1097/nrl.0b013e3181c29f25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis presenting as a neurologic emergency warrants management in a critical care unit. In resource poor settings which typify much of Africa, this can be very challenging even in tertiary centers with consequently unfavorable outcomes. AIM This study evaluated the outcomes of intensive care management of patients with myasthenia gravis in a regional teaching hospital in South East Nigeria. METHODS A retrospective study was undertaken of patients admitted into the intensive care unit of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, South East Nigeria, with myasthenia gravis as a neurologic emergency. This study covered a 13-year period from 1992 to 2004. From the case records demographic data, clinical features and details of clinical management, complications, and outcomes were determined and subjected to analysis. RESULTS The median age at presentation was 29 years (range, 20 to 42 y) with male:female ratio of 1:2.7. The median duration of illness before presentation to the intensive care unit was 7 months (range, 1 wk to 3 y). The median duration of stay in the unit was 15 days (range, 1 to 36 d). Two cases of septicemia and acute renal failure were recorded. The overall mortality rate was 27.3%. CONCLUSION Sepsis is a major factor contributing to poor outcomes among patients with myasthenia gravis managed in critical care units in Nigeria. Vigorous and concerted efforts should be made to make intensive care units more effective in Africa.
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Mantegazza R, Bonanno S, Camera G, Antozzi C. Current and emerging therapies for the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2011; 7:151-60. [PMID: 21552317 PMCID: PMC3083988 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s8915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmmune disease in which autoantibodies to different antigens of the neuromuscular junction cause the typical weakness and fatigability. Treatment includes anticholinesterase drugs, immunosuppression, immunomodulation, and thymectomy. The autoimmune response is maintained under control by corticosteroids frequently associated with immunosuppressive drugs, with improvement in the majority of patients. In case of acute exacerbations with bulbar symptoms or repeated relapses, modulation of autoantibody activity by plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulins provides rapid improvement. Recently, techniques removing only circulating immunoglobulins have been developed for the chronic management of treatment-resistant patients. The rationale for thymectomy relies on the central role of the thymus. Despite the lack of controlled studies, thymectomy is recommended as an option to improve the clinical outcome or promote complete remission. New videothoracoscopic techniques have been developed to offer the maximal surgical approach with the minimal invasiveness and hence patient tolerability. The use of biological drugs such as anti-CD20 antibodies is still limited but promising. Studies performed in the animal model of MG demonstrated that several more selective or antigen-specific approaches, ranging from mucosal tolerization to inhibition of complement activity or cellular therapy, might be feasible. Investigation of the transfer of these therapeutic approaches to the human disease will be the challenge for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Mantegazza
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuroimmunology, Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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15
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McDaneld LM, Fields JD, Bourdette DN, Bhardwaj A. Immunomodulatory therapies in neurologic critical care. Neurocrit Care 2010; 12:132-43. [PMID: 19774497 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-009-9274-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2009] [Accepted: 08/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurologic disorders with autoimmune dysregulation are commonly encountered in the critical care setting. Frequently encountered diseases include Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis, and encephalitides. Immunomodulatory therapies, including high-dose corticosteroids, plasmapheresis, and intravenous immunoglobulins, are the cornerstone of the treatment of these diseases. Here we review the efficacy and side effects of immunomodulatory therapies commonly utilized in critically ill neurologic patients in the intensive care setting. METHODS Search of Medline, Cochrane databases, and manual review of article bibliographies. RESULTS The efficacy of high-dose corticosteroids, plasmapheresis, and intravenous immunoglobulins have been studied extensively in GBS, myasthenia gravis, and demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis and acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis. For these diseases, however, the duration of treatment, dosing regimens, and choices among different therapeutic modalities remain controversial. For many of the other diseases (e.g., encephalitis and status epilepticus of autoimmune etiology) discussed in this review, evidence is limited to small case series. CONCLUSIONS There is good evidence for the efficacy and tolerability of immunomodulatory therapies in GBS, myasthenia gravis, and acute central nervous system demyelination, though data to establish superiority of one therapeutic regimen over another remains lacking. For most other conditions, the data for immunomodulatory therapies are limited, and further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan M McDaneld
- Departments of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Triantafyllou NI, Grapsa EI, Kararizou E, Psimenou E, Lagguranis A, Dimopoulos A. Periodic Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Patients With Moderate to Severe Chronic Myasthenia Gravis Non-Responsive to Immunosuppressive Agents: An Eight Year Follow-Up. Ther Apher Dial 2009; 13:174-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-9987.2009.00684.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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17
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Effect of IgG immunoadsorption on serum cytokines in MG and LEMS patients. J Neuroimmunol 2008; 201-202:104-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2008.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2008] [Revised: 05/30/2008] [Accepted: 05/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Kaynar L, Altuntas F, Aydogdu I, Turgut B, Kocyigit I, Hacioglu SK, Ismailogullari S, Turgut N, Erkurt MA, Sari I, Oztekin M, Solmaz M, Eser B, Ersoy AO, Unal A, Cetin M. Therapeutic plasma exchange in patients with neurologic diseases: retrospective multicenter study. Transfus Apher Sci 2008; 38:109-115. [PMID: 18331814 DOI: 10.1016/j.transci.2007.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2007] [Revised: 10/18/2007] [Accepted: 11/11/2007] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is commonly used in many neurological disorders where an immune etiology was known or suspected. We report our experience with TPE performed for neuroimmunologic disorders at four university hospitals. The study was a retrospective review of the medical records of neurological patients (n=57) consecutively treated with TPE between April 2006 and May 2007. TPE indications in neurological diseases included Guillain-Barrè Syndrome (GBS) (n=41), myasthenia gravis (MG) (n=11), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) (n=3), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) (n=1) and multiple sclerosis (MS) (n=1). Patient median age was 49; there was a predominance of males. Twenty-two patients had a history of other therapy including intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), steroid, azothioprin, and pridostigmine prior to TPE. Another 35 patients had not received any treatment prior to TPE. All patients were classified according to the Hughes functional grading scores pre- and first day post-TPE for early clinical evaluation of patients. The TPE was carried out 1-1.5 times at the predicted plasma volume every other day. Two hundred and ninety-four procedures were performed on 57 patients. The median number of TPE sessions per patient was five, and the median processed plasma volume was 3075mL for each cycle. Although the pre-TPE median Hughes score of all patients was 4, it had decreased to grade 1 after TPE. While the pre-TPE median Hughes score for GBS and MG patients was 4, post-TPE scores were decreased to grade 1. Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference between post-TPE Hughes score for GBS patients with TPE as front line therapy and patients receiving IVIG as front line therapy (1 vs. 3.5; p=0.034). Although there was no post-TPE improvement in Hughes scores in patients with ADEM and CIDP, patients with MS had an improved Hughes score from 4 to 1. Mild and manageable complications such as hypotension and hypocalcemia were also observed. TPE may be preferable for controlling symptoms of neuroimmunological disorders in early stage of the disease, especially with GBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leylagul Kaynar
- Erciyes Medical School, Department of Hematology and Apheresis Unit, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
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Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare, autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorder. Contemporary prevalence rates approach 1/5,000. MG presents with painless, fluctuating, fatigable weakness involving specific muscle groups. Ocular weakness with asymmetric ptosis and binocular diplopia is the most typical initial presentation, while early or isolated oropharyngeal or limb weakness is less common. The course is variable, and most patients with initial ocular weakness develop bulbar or limb weakness within three years of initial symptom onset. MG results from antibody-mediated, T cell-dependent immunologic attack on the endplate region of the postsynaptic membrane. In patients with fatigable muscle weakness, the diagnosis of MG is supported by: 1. pharmacologic testing with edrophonium chloride that elicits unequivocal improvement in strength; 2. electrophysiologic testing with repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) studies and/or single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG) that demonstrates a primary postsynaptic neuromuscular junctional disorder; and 3. serologic demonstration of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) or muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies. Differential diagnosis includes congenital myasthenic syndromes, Lambert Eaton syndrome, botulism, organophosphate intoxication, mitochondrial disorders involving progressive external ophthalmoplegia, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), motor neuron disease, and brainstem ischemia. Treatment must be individualized, and may include symptomatic treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors and immune modulation with corticosteroids, azathioprine, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate mofetil. Rapid, temporary improvement may be achieved for myasthenic crises and exacerbations with plasma exchange (PEX) or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Owing to improved diagnostic testing, immunotherapy, and intensive care, the contemporary prognosis is favorable with less than five percent mortality and nearly normal life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vern C Juel
- Division of Neurology, Box 3403, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
| | - Janice M Massey
- Division of Neurology, Box 3403, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
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Trikha I, Singh S, Goyal V, Shukla G, Bhasin R, Behari M. Comparative efficacy of low dose, daily versus alternate day plasma exchange in severe myasthenia gravis: a randomised trial. J Neurol 2007; 254:989-95. [PMID: 17694386 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-006-0235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2005] [Revised: 01/16/2006] [Accepted: 01/19/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the comparative efficacy of low dose daily versus alternate day plasma exchange in patients with severe myasthenia. METHODS Thirty three patients with myasthenia gravis (Osserman's stage II b and III) were randomized to receive alternate day (n = 17) or daily low dose plasma exchange (n = 16). Plasma exchange were carried on each patient, number of exchanges varying subject to their requirements and 20-25 ml/kg plasma was removed during each session. Myasthenia gravis disease scale (MGDS) score was evaluated before and after the procedure. Time to wean off ventilator, removal of nasogastric tube and total duration of hospital stay were also assessed. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference between daily vs. alternate day group with regards to change in MGDS score, percentage change in MGDS score, and complication rates. A decreased hospital stay was observed in patients on daily plasma exchange which almost reached statistical significance. CONCLUSION We conclude from our study that daily and alternate day plasma exchange are similar in their efficacy and complication rates, however the daily schedule could be a preferred modality due to decreased hospital stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha Trikha
- Department of Neurology, Neurosciences Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India
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21
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Lehmann HC, Hartung HP, Hetzel GR, Kieseier BC. [Plasma exchange as a therapeutic option in neurological disorders]. DER NERVENARZT 2007; 78:166, 168-70, 172-6. [PMID: 17268791 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-006-2229-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plasma exchange is a therapeutic procedure commonly used in various neurological disorders. Here we review its current role as a treatment option in diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Lehmann
- Neurologische Klinik, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf
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22
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Hamed SA, Elattar AM, Hamed EA. Irreversible cochlear damage in myasthenia gravis -- otoacoustic emission analysis. Acta Neurol Scand 2006; 113:46-54. [PMID: 16367899 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2005.00541.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Acetyl choline (ACh) is the main neurotransmitter of the efferent auditory system. This study is aimed to evaluate cochlear function in myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular transmission disorder caused by ACh receptor autoantibodies. METHODS This prospective study included 16 myasthenic patients, tested audiologically twice, first after improvement from myasthenic crisis or acute oropharyngeal dysfunction (1 week from admission) and then 2 months later. We detected the effect of contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS) on patients' transient and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE and DPOAE). RESULTS Compared with controls, patients reported significant reduction in overall echo response and amplitude of TEOAEs at 1-2 kHz and at 1-6 kHz of DPOAE with marked reduction at 5 kHz. In the control group, CAS produced amplitude reduction in TEOAEs and DPOAEs at 1-4 kHz. Utilizing masking effect, patients reported amplitude reduction in TEOAEs at 1.5-4 kHz while DPOAEs did not reach significant level except at 1.5 and 5 kHz. After 2 months, no changes were observed compared with early assessment. CONCLUSIONS It is clear that disease progression is associated with irreversible cochlear damage. Lack of improvement in patients' emissions despite partial non-audiometric improvement in relation to receptors needs to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Hamed
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt.
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23
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Juel VC, Massey JM. Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis: Recommendations for Treatment and Immunologic Modulation. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2005; 7:3-14. [PMID: 15610702 DOI: 10.1007/s11940-005-0001-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Treatment for myasthenia gravis should be individualized to each patient based on the clinical characteristics of myasthenia including the distribution, duration, and severity of weakness and resulting functional impairment; the risks for treatment complications related to age, gender, and medical comorbidities; and the presence of thymoma. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors provide temporary, symptomatic treatment for all forms of myasthenia gravis. Immune modulators address the underlying autoimmune process in myasthenia gravis, but are associated with potential complications and side effects. Most patients with generalized myasthenia who have significant weakness beyond the ocular muscles and who remain symptomatic, despite treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors, are candidates for immune modulation. Although corticosteroids are effective for long-term immune modulation in myasthenia gravis, several more contemporary immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate mofetil have shown efficacy in myasthenia gravis and are used increasingly as first-line treatments and as steroid-sparing agents. Plasma exchange is used to achieve rapid improvement in patients with myasthenic crisis or exacerbation, to improve strength before a surgical procedure or thymectomy, and to minimize steroid-induced exacerbation in patients with oropharyngeal or respiratory muscle weakness. Intravenous immunoglobulin represents an alternative to plasma exchange in patients requiring relatively rapid short-term improvement in the setting of poor venous access. Because of a lack of controlled trials, the role of thymectomy in nonthymomatous myasthenia gravis is unclear, although evidence suggests that thymectomy increases the probability for myasthenic remission or improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vern C Juel
- Duke University Medical Center, DUMC 3403, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Mantegazza R, Baggi F, Antozzi C, Confalonieri P, Morandi L, Bernasconi P, Andreetta F, Simoncini O, Campanella A, Beghi E, Cornelio F. Myasthenia gravis (MG): epidemiological data and prognostic factors. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2003; 998:413-23. [PMID: 14592909 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1254.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Data from 756 myasthenic patients were analyzed for diagnostic criteria, clinical aspects, and therapeutic approaches. The patients were followed up at our institution from 1981 to 2001. Clinical evaluation was performed according to the myasthenia gravis score adopted at our clinic. Clinical features of each patient (comprising demographic, clinical, neurophysiological, immunological, radiological, and surgical data, as well as serial myasthenia gravis scores) were filed in a relational database containing more than 7000 records. Clinical efficacy and variables influencing outcome were assessed by life-table methods and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. Complete stable remission, as defined by the Task Force of the Medical Scientific Advisory Board of the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, was the end point for good prognosis. Four hundred and ninety-nine patients (66%) were female and 257 (34%) were male. Mean follow-up was 55.1 +/- 48.1 months. Onset of symptoms peaked in the third decade in females, whereas the male distribution was bimodal with peaks in the third and sixth decades. Modality of myasthenia gravis presentation was as follows: ocular, 39.3%; generalized, 28.5%; bulbar, 31.3%; and respiratory, 0.8%. Thymectomy was carried out on 63.7% of our patients by different approaches: (1) transcervical; (2) transsternal; (3) video-thoracoscopic mini-invasive surgery. The last approach has been preferentially used in more recent years and accounted for 62.4% of the thymectomized myasthenia gravis population. Univariate analysis and Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that variables such as sex (female), age at onset (below 40 years), thymectomy, and histological diagnosis of thymic hyperplasia were significantly associated with complete stable remission, whereas on multivariate analysis only age at onset below 40 years and thymectomy were confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Mantegazza
- Immunology and Muscular Pathology Unit, National Neurological Institute Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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Yeh JH, Chen WH, Chiu HC. Predicting the course of myasthenic weakness following double filtration plasmapheresis. Acta Neurol Scand 2003; 108:174-8. [PMID: 12911460 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0404.2003.00107.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical course of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) up to 3 months after double filtration plasmapheresis (DFP). MATERIAL AND METHODS We recorded the MG score and measured the level of acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchRAb) at baseline and day 1 (D1), week 1 (W1), 1 month (M1), 2 (M2) and 3 months (M3) after DFP in 16 MG patients. Based on the difference in score during follow-up, we divided our patients into clinical improvement (CI) and clinical worsening (CW) groups. RESULTS The MG score decreased in all courses from a mean of 8.1 at baseline to 5.6 at D1, and to 4.7, 4.0, 3.8, and 3.7 at W1, M1, M2, and M3, respectively. In the CW group, AchRAb levels were significantly higher at M1 (P = 0.022). The AchRAb level at W1 correlated significantly with the MG score at M3 (P = 0.027) and the changes of MG score from W1 to M1 (P = 0.029). The ratio of AchRAb levels of M1 to W1 correlated well with MG score at W1 (P = 0.032), at M3 (P = 0.001), and the changes of MG score from W1 to M1 (P = 0.004). CONCLUSION Excessive rebounds of AchRAb level at W1 may suggest clinical worsening and further increases in AchRAb level at M1 predict poorer outcome after DFP.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-H Yeh
- Department of Neurology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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26
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In myasthenia gravis (MG), the prototypic autoimmune disease, antibodies against acetylcholine receptors impair neuromuscular transmission and produce weakness. Although recognized for several hundred years, it has only been over the last three decades that effective treatments have become available for MG. REVIEW SUMMARY This review summarizes the principles of normal neuromuscular transmission, the clinical features of MG, and the tests available for its diagnosis. The current treatments for MG are discussed, including possible mechanisms of action and a discussion of potential adverse effects. When available, evidence-based justification for individual treatment options is given, and areas of controversy identified. CONCLUSIONS Significant improvements in the diagnosis and management of MG have been made over the last several decades. The available treatments either improve neuromuscular transmission directly, or suppress or modulate the pathogenic immune response in MG. Treatment is highly individualized and must take into account the severity of disease, the presence of other diseases, and the kinetics of response for the available treatments. This requires detailed knowledge of the mechanisms of action and possible adverse effects for each treatment. However, despite an optimistic outlook with modern treatment, the management of MG continues to be plagued by lack of efficacy in some, and significant adverse effects in most MG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Nicolle
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Center, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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27
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease mediated by auto-antibodies direct against the nicotinic receptor for acetylcholine. Patients would be expected to benefit from plasma exchange. Non-randomised studies suggest that plasma exchange is beneficial in the short term. OBJECTIVES To examine the efficacy of plasma exchange in the short and long term treatment of myasthenia gravis. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group register (searched 17 July 2002) and MEDLINE (January 1966 to June 2002) for randomised controlled trials using myasthenia gravis as the search term. We checked the bibliographies in reports of randomised trials and contacted one author to identify additional published or unpublished data. SELECTION CRITERIA Types of studies: All randomised or quasi-randomised studies. TYPES OF PARTICIPANTS All patients with myasthenia gravis who were diagnosed by an internationally accepted definition. Types of intervention: Treatment with plasma exchange alone or combined with steroids or immunosuppressive drugs. Types of outcome measures: PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE ~bullet~patients treated for exacerbation: change in a specific muscle score after plasma exchange; ~bullet~patients treated for chronic myasthenia gravis: change in a functional scale. SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES ~bullet~patients treated for exacerbation: change in a functional scale and percentage weaned from mechanical ventilation; ~bullet~patients treated for chronic myasthenia gravis: percentage in remission by the end of one year after first plasma exchange; ~bullet~adverse events. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS One author extracted the data and the two others checked them. Since there was only one trial no formal meta-analysis was required. MAIN RESULTS We identified one randomised controlled trial. Improvement in a quantitative muscle score was not significantly greater in patients treated with plasma exchange and prednisone than in patients treated with prednisone alone one month after onset of treatment. More relapses were observed in the plasma exchange and prednisone group in the first year as compared with the prednisone alone group. Problems in recruitment and matching of patients entered into this trial limit the conclusions that can be drawn. On the other hand,experience from many non-randomised studies suggests that plasma exchange is beneficial in myasthenia gravis. Consequently the relative benefits of plasma exchange are still unconfirmed. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS There are no adequate randomised controlled trials but many case series report short-term benefit from plasma exchange in myasthenia gravis, especially in myasthenic crisis. There are no adequate randomised controlled trials to determine whether plasma exchange improves the long-term outcome for myasthenia gravis. Further research is need to compare plasma exchange with alternative short-term treatments for myasthenic crisis and to determine the value of long-term plasma exchange for treating myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Gajdos
- Intensive Care Unit, Raymond Poincare Hospital, AP-HP, 104, boulevard Raymond Poincaré, Garches, Ile de France, France, 92380.
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28
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Chiu HC, Chen WH, Yeh JH. The six year experience of plasmapheresis in patients with myasthenia gravis. THERAPEUTIC APHERESIS : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR APHERESIS AND THE JAPANESE SOCIETY FOR APHERESIS 2000; 4:291-5. [PMID: 10975476 DOI: 10.1046/j.1526-0968.2000.004004291.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Plasmapheresis (PP) effectively removes autoantibodies in various autoimmune diseases. The use of PP in the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) has been widely accepted since the 1970s. The treatment protocol, however, has not been standardized. For the last 6 years, we collected a total of 94 MG patients, 38 males and 56 females aged 14-80 years, who received 175 courses of PP treatment for a total of 823 sessions. The methods we used were double filtration plasmapheresis (DF), immunoadsorption plasmapheresis (IA), and plasma exchange (PE). There were 167 courses of DF, 6 courses of IA, and 2 courses of PE. Each course of treatment consists of 4 to 5 sessions of apheresis. The processed volume of plasma is 1 calculated plasma volume. All patients tolerated PP well although 2.3% of them experienced hypotension. Our experiences are summarized as follows. Both DF and IA effectively ameliorate symptoms and signs of MG. IA removes acetylcholine receptor antibody more effectively than DF does, but clinical effects between these 2 methods are similar. A daily schedule seems more effective than an alternate daily schedule. The optimal number of PP sessions for each course is 4. The factors correlating with better clinical response are high MG score, nonthymoma patients, younger age at onset, and higher removal rate for immunoglobulin G.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Chiu
- Department of Neurology, Shin-Kong WHS Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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29
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Batocchi AP, Evoli A, Di Schino C, Tonali P. Therapeutic apheresis in myasthenia gravis. THERAPEUTIC APHERESIS : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR APHERESIS AND THE JAPANESE SOCIETY FOR APHERESIS 2000; 4:275-9. [PMID: 10975473 DOI: 10.1046/j.1526-0968.2000.004004275.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Plasma exchange (PE) is an easily applicable technique for rapid and massive removal of antibodies, and its beneficial role is well established in the management of myasthenia gravis (MG), an antibody-mediated disorder of the neuromuscular junction. PE is useful in myasthenic crisis, in most severe forms of MG before thymectomy, in the early postoperative period, and in cases of symptom worsening during tapering or initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. Clinical efficacy varies from 55% to 100%, and improvement rarely persists for more than 4-10 weeks; thus immunosuppressive therapy has to be associated. New apheretic techniques (double filtration plasmapheresis, immunoadsorption systems with staphylococcal protein A columns or thryptophan-polyvinyl alcohol gel columns) that allow the selective removal of IgG and anti-AChR antibody were recently used in the management of MG with positive effects. Whether their therapeutic effect and cost effect prove more favorable than those obtained by PE still must be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Batocchi
- Institute of Neurology, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- R Weinstein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology and Transfusion Medicine, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center of Boston, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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31
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Mahalati K, Dawson RB, Collins JO, Mayer RF. Predictable recovery from myasthenia gravis crisis with plasma exchange: thirty-six cases and review of current management. J Clin Apher 2000; 14:1-8. [PMID: 10355656 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-1101(1999)14:1<1::aid-jca1>3.0.co;2-u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Adult, acquired, idiopathic, autoimmune myasthenia gravis has a well-characterized IgG anti-acetylcholine striated-muscle receptor antibody. Removal by plasma exchange is effective, established therapy to augment anti-cholinesterase and immunosuppressive therapy and is the treatment of choice for myasthenia gravis crisis. We report 36 consecutive patients referred and accepted for plasma exchange, 32 of whom were in or entering myasthenia crisis, over a 10 year period. An average of 7.8 (range 1 to 16) plasma exchange procedures were done, with uniform, significant improvement, including extubation of 13 in myasthenic crisis and discharge from hospital in all. We conclude that this is the best treatment for myasthenia gravis crisis in hospital. From recent cases, most, if not all, crises can be prevented by IVIgG or plasma exchange as out-patients with use of corticosteroid and or azathioprine.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Mahalati
- Department of Pathology, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
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32
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Yeh JH, Chiu HC. Optimal volume of processed plasma and total number of selective plasmapheresis sessions in the treatment of patients with severe generalized myasthenia gravis. J Clin Apher 1999; 14:177-80. [PMID: 10611627 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-1101(1999)14:4<177::aid-jca4>3.0.co;2-l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The selection of the technical parameters of plasmapheresis in the treatment of patients with MG varies widely due to the lack of sufficient data from controlled studies to standardize the plasmapheresis procedure. Eight myasthenia gravis (MG) patients (Osserman IIb and III) received either immunoadsorption plasmapheresis (IA) with a IM-TR 350 (Asahi Medical Co., Tokyo, Japan) or double filtration plasmapheresis (DF) with a Cascadeflo AC-1770, with four in each group. A Plasmaflo AP 05 W (Asahi Medical Co., Tokyo, Japan) was used as the plasma separator in both groups. Each course of treatment consisted of five sessions of aphereses on alternate days. Plasma was sampled before and after passing through the column. Samples of plasma were analyzed for acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchRAb) at the start of plasmapheresis and sequentially after every 0.5 L of plasma treated. The IA method cleared significantly more AchRAb during the initial treatment of 1. 5 L of plasma than the DF method, especially in the initial 1 L (P < 0.01). The column saturated after treatment of 1.5 to 2 L of plasma. It is known that over-saturation of column may release the already adsorbed/filtrated antibodies. Longitudinal analysis on the serological changes during the five sessions revealed that the clearance obtained using the IA method was significantly higher and more sustained after the first session of treatment compared to the DF method (P < 0.05). The titers of AchRAb were also noted to rise after the fourth session. These results suggest that 2 L of processed volume is optimal in terms of the functional capacity of a plasmapheresis column in either IA or DF methods, and that a total of four sessions of treatment in one course may provide optimal elimination of AchRAb.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Yeh
- Department of Neurology, Shin-Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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33
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Yeh JH, Chiu HC. Double filtration plasmapheresis in myasthenia gravis--analysis of clinical efficacy and prognostic parameters. Acta Neurol Scand 1999; 100:305-9. [PMID: 10536917 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.1999.tb00401.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of double filtration plasmapheresis (DFP) in the treatment of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) and to analyze the possible prognostic factors related to responsiveness to DFP. MATERIALS AND METHODS We treated 45 MG patients, 26 women and 19 men aged 21-72 years, with DFP for 5 consecutive sessions. All were affected by severe generalized or respiratory weakness with an Osserman's classification of group 2 or 3 and had not responded to previous treatments. RESULTS Thirty-eight out of 45 patients (84%) achieved significant improvements after DFP. The baseline MG score and removal rate for immunoglobulin G (IgG) were significantly higher in the patients with good response than in the other response groups. Poor responders were more likely to have thymoma and a longer interval among sessions of DFP. Better response in patients with age at onset of less than 40 years was associated with higher MG score. Serum concentration of all proteins tested fell as follows (mean +/- SD): IgM, 88+/-7%; IgA, 71+/-11%; IgG, 59+/-14%; globulin, 52+/-11%; AchRAb, 47+/-14%; and albumin, 27+/-10%. All the patients tolerated plasmapheresis well except for 2.2% who experienced hypotension. CONCLUSION In this study, DFP was effective and safe in the treatment of patients with severe generalized MG. The factors correlating with the better clinical response were high MG score, a thymic pathology of non-thymoma, daily apheresis, young age at onset, and high removal rate for IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Yeh
- Department of Neurology, Shin-Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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34
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Yeh JH, Chiu HC. Plasmapheresis in myasthenia gravis. A comparative study of daily versus alternately daily schedule. Acta Neurol Scand 1999; 99:147-51. [PMID: 10100957 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.1999.tb07336.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of different protocols of plasmapheresis in the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG). MATERIALS AND METHODS We treated 30 MG patients with plasmapheresis on either a daily or alternately daily schedule for 5 consecutive sessions. Acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchRAb), serum proteins including albumin, globulin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgA, and IgM, and MG score were measured before and after the course of plasmapheresis in each group of patients. RESULTS The mean percent reductions of serum proteins including IgA (81.5% vs 69.7%), IgM (95.6% vs 87.1%), and globulin (63.2% vs 50.1%) were significantly higher in the daily group. There were no significant differences in AchRAb and IgG levels after treatment between these 2 groups. However, the reduction of MG score was greater in the daily group. All the patients tolerated plasmapheresis well except for 2.7% of them who experienced hypotension. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that daily plasmapheresis may be more effective in the treatment of patients with advanced MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Yeh
- Department of Neurology, Shin-Kong WHS Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Abstract
Plasmapheresis plays an important role in the acute management of patients with severe myasthenia gravis. Although plasmapheresis is now in use for more than 20 years, some controversies remain about the indication and the place in the therapy. It is generally found that the effect starts one week after the start of PP and lasts about 2-4 weeks after the last exchange; because of this temporary effect use of concomitant immunosuppressive medication is recommended. Compilation of data from 13 large series shows that about 75% of the patients react favourably. The relation between fluctuations of antibodies and the effect of PP is poor; even seronegative patients may improve as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Kuks
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands
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Gajdos P, Chevret S, Clair B, Tranchant C, Chastang C. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin in autoimmune myasthenia gravis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1998; 841:720-6. [PMID: 9668320 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1998.tb11008.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P Gajdos
- Service de Réanimation Médicale, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches, France
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Morosetti M, Meloni C, Iani C, Caramia M, Galderisi C, Palombo G, Gallucci MT, Bernardi G, Casciani CU. Plasmapheresis in severe forms of myasthenia gravis. Artif Organs 1998; 22:129-34. [PMID: 9491902 DOI: 10.1046/j.1525-1594.1998.05061.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study we introduce a new combination treatment of plasma exchange (PE) and high daily doses of prednisone for severe forms of myasthenia gravis (MG). The clinical efficacy of the combined therapy has been tested in 18 patients suffering from severe forms of MG. The protocol included 5 sessions of PE, performed in a range of 15 days, 1 session every 3 days, with concurrent administration of oral prednisone (1 mg/kg of body weight), starting at the first session of PE and given daily for at least 3 months. At the end of the entire cycle of PE, almost complete recovery (more than 90% of the initial clinical score) was obtained in 8 of 18 patients while an improvement between 60 and 90% of the initial score was achieved in 9 of 18 patients. An early improvement was noted 24 h after the beginning of plasmapheresis in 11 of 18 patients. No recurrence of symptoms was reported after 36 months of follow-up for 17 patients. The administration of steroid therapy was never followed by an early exacerbation of myasthenic symptoms as reported when it is administered in the absence of concomitant PE. According to our results, we can conclude that high doses of oral prednisone therapy in simultaneous association with PE lead to successful control of severe forms of MG, significantly superior to the therapeutic strategies until now adopted and reported in literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Morosetti
- Clinica Chirurgica, Università Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Gajdos P, Chevret S, Clair B, Tranchant C, Chastang C. Clinical trial of plasma exchange and high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin in myasthenia gravis. Myasthenia Gravis Clinical Study Group. Ann Neurol 1997; 41:789-96. [PMID: 9189040 DOI: 10.1002/ana.410410615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 311] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
We have conducted a trial to randomly assess the efficacy and tolerance of intravenous immunoglobulin (i.v.Ig) or plasma exchange (PE) in myasthenia gravis (MG) exacerbation and to compare two doses of i.v.Ig. Eighty-seven patients with MG exacerbation were randomized to receive either three PE (n = 41), or i.v.Ig (n = 46) 0.4 gm/kg daily further allocated to 3 (n = 23) or 5 days (n = 23). The main end point was the variation of a myasthenic muscular score (MSS) between randomization and day 15. The MSS variation was similar in both groups (median value, +18 in the PE group and +15.5 in the i.v.Ig group, p = 0.65). Similar efficacy, although slightly reduced in the 5-day group was observed with both i.v.Ig schedules. The tolerance of i.v.Ig was better than that of PE with a total of 14 side effects observed in 9 patients, 8 in the PE group and 1 in the i.v.Ig group (p = 0.01). Although our trial failed to show a pronounced difference in the efficacy of both treatments, it exhibited a very limited risk for i.v.Ig. i.v.Ig is an alternative for the treatment of myasthenic crisis. The small sample sizes in our trial, however, could explain why a difference in efficacy was not observed. Further studies are needed to compare PE with i.v.Ig and to determine the optimal dosage of i.v.Ig.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Gajdos
- Service de Réanimation, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches, France
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41
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Abstract
Ocular myasthenia is a localized form of myasthenia clinically involving only the extraocular, levator palpebrae superioris, and/or orbicularis oculi muscles. Ocular manifestations can masquerade as a variety of ocular motility disorders, including cranial nerve and gaze palsies. A history of variable and fatiguable muscle weakness suggests this diagnosis, which may be confirmed by the edrophonium (Tensilon) test and acetylcholine receptor antibody titer. Anticholinesterases, corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents, and other therapeutic modalities, including thymectomy and plasmapheresis, are used in treatment. As the pathophysiology of myasthenia has been elucidated in recent years, newer treatment strategies have evolved, resulting in a much more favorable prognosis than several decades ago. This review provides historical background, pathophysiology, immuno-genetics, diagnostic testing, and treatment options for ocular myasthenia, as well as a discussion of drug-induced myasthenic syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Weinberg
- Neuro-Ophthalmology Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Cornelio F, Antozzi C, Mantegazza R, Confalonieri P, Berta E, Peluchetti D, Sghirlanzoni A, Fiacchino F. Immunosuppressive treatments. Their efficacy on myasthenia gravis patients' outcome and on the natural course of the disease. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1993; 681:594-602. [PMID: 8357208 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1993.tb22951.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F Cornelio
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Istituto Nazionale Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
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