Asymmetric pattern in generalized myasthenia gravis: A case report

Myasthenia Gravis Masquerading as an Idiopathic Unilateral Facial Paralysis (Bell's Palsy)-A Very Rare and Unique Clinical Find

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an uncommon autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorder manifesting as fluctuating weakness of skeletal muscles. To add to its repertoire of mimicking a wide range of neurological disorders, the present case report is, to the best of our knowledge, the very first to describe MG masquerading as an idiopathic unilateral facial paralysis (Bell's palsy, BP). Our case report is distinct, highlights a novel clinical occurrence, offers new insights of how different neurological disorders may overlap with each other, and reminds neurologists to have a very broad and thorough comprehension for effective diagnoses and treatment plans. Several other conditions that produce facial nerve palsy identical to BP have also been discussed.

Associations of BAFF rs2893321 polymorphisms with myasthenia gravis susceptibility

Background

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune diseases characterized by fatigue and weakness of skeletal muscles. B-lymphocyte-activating factor (BAFF), an essential factor for B cell differentiation and development, is important in the progression of MG. The current study aimed to investigate the association between single nucleotide polymorphism rs2893321 in BAFF with MG susceptibility in Chinese Han population.

Methods

One hundred forty-nine patients with MG and 148 healthy controls were recruited. Using improved multiple ligase detection reaction technology, the polymorphisms of rs2893321 between groups and among MG subgroups have been compared.

Results

A significant differences between the MG group and the healthy control group was observed. Additionally, rs2893321 was found to be associated with gender and age in patients with MG.

Conclusion

Genetic variations of rs2893321 in BAFF might be associated with susceptibility to MG in the Chinese Han population.