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Gilhus NE, Andersen H, Andersen LK, Boldingh M, Laakso S, Leopoldsdottir MO, Madsen S, Piehl F, Popperud TH, Punga AR, Schirakow L, Vissing J. Generalized myasthenia gravis with acetylcholine receptor antibodies: A guidance for treatment. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16229. [PMID: 38321574 PMCID: PMC11236053 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16229] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) with antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor is a chronic disease causing muscle weakness. Access to novel treatments warrants authoritative treatment recommendations. The Nordic countries have similar, comprehensive health systems, mandatory health registers, and extensive MG research. METHODS MG experts and patient representatives from the five Nordic countries formed a working group to prepare treatment guidance for MG based on a systematic literature search and consensus meetings. RESULTS Pyridostigmine represents the first-line symptomatic treatment, while ambenonium and beta adrenergic agonists are second-line options. Early thymectomy should be undertaken if a thymoma, and in non-thymoma patients up to the age of 50-65 years if not obtaining remission on symptomatic treatment. Most patients need immunosuppressive drug treatment. Combining corticosteroids at the lowest possible dose with azathioprine is recommended, rituximab being an alternative first-line option. Mycophenolate, methotrexate, and tacrolimus represent second-line immunosuppression. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin are used for myasthenic crises and acute exacerbations. Novel complement inhibitors and FcRn blockers are effective and fast-acting treatments with promising safety profiles. Their use depends on local availability, refunding policies, and cost-benefit analyses. Adapted physical training is recommended. Planning of pregnancies with optimal treatment, information, and awareness of neonatal MG is necessary. Social support and adaptation of work and daily life activities are recommended. CONCLUSIONS Successful treatment of MG rests on timely combination of different interventions. Due to spontaneous disease fluctuations, comorbidities, and changes in life conditions, regular long-term specialized follow-up is needed. Most patients do reasonably well but there is room for further improvement. Novel treatments are promising, though subject to restricted access due to costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of NeurologyHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
- Department of Clinical MedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
| | | | - Linda Kahr Andersen
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of NeurologyCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark
| | | | - Sini Laakso
- Department of Neurology, Brain CenterHelsinki University HospitalHelsinkiFinland
- Translational Immunology Research ProgramUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | | | - Sidsel Madsen
- The National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular DiseasesAarhusDenmark
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of NeurologyKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | | | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Medical SciencesUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
- Department of Clinical NeurophysiologyUppsala University HospitalUppsalaSweden
| | | | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of NeurologyCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark
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Alsop T, Cassimatis M, Williams KL, Gomersall SR. Perspectives of people with myasthenia gravis on physical activity and experience of physical activity advice from health professionals in the Australian context: a qualitative study. Disabil Rehabil 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38613411 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2338877] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Physical activity is an important modifiable determinant of health. There has been a historical aversion to movement in people with myasthenia gravis (MG) due to the pathophysiology of the disease, however, research suggests engagement in physical activity is safe and does not exacerbate symptoms. There are currently no studies investigating the qualitative perspectives of people with MG on physical activity. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of physical activity, barriers, enablers, and participants' experiences of physical activity advice from health professionals. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews were used, with verbatim transcripts analysed using content analysis. RESULTS Ten adults (median age 64.5 years) living in Australia with generalised MG were interviewed. Key findings were identified: (1) Physical activity is perceived to be important for general health and for MG; (2) Medical management and social support are key enablers; (3) Fatigue and pain are potential barriers; and (4) Experiences with healthcare professionals were considered insufficient and failed to provide disease specific advice regarding MG and physical activity. CONCLUSION People with MG have unique barriers and enablers to physical activity engagement that clinicians should consider when providing physical activity behaviour change support to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahlia Alsop
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Marianna Cassimatis
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katrina L Williams
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sjaan R Gomersall
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Poleur M, Markati T, Servais L. The use of digital outcome measures in clinical trials in rare neurological diseases: a systematic literature review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:224. [PMID: 37533072 PMCID: PMC10398976 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02813-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing drugs for rare diseases is challenging, and the precision and objectivity of outcome measures is critical to this process. In recent years, a number of technologies have increasingly been used for remote monitoring of patient health. We report a systematic literature review that aims to summarize the current state of progress with regard to the use of digital outcome measures for real-life motor function assessment of patients with rare neurological diseases. Our search of published literature identified 3826 records, of which 139 were included across 27 different diseases. This review shows that use of digital outcome measures for motor function outside a clinical setting is feasible and employed in a broad range of diseases, although we found few outcome measures that have been robustly validated and adopted as endpoints in clinical trials. Future research should focus on validation of devices, variables, and algorithms to allow for regulatory qualification and widespread adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaux Poleur
- Department of Neurology, Liege University Hospital Center, Liège, Belgium.
- Neuromuscular Reference Center, Division of Paediatrics University, Hospital University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Centre Hospitalier Régional de la Citadelle, Boulevard du 12eme de Ligne 1, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Theodora Markati
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Laurent Servais
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Neuromuscular Reference Center, Division of Paediatrics University, Hospital University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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4
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Birnbaum S, Sharshar T, Ropers J, Portero P, Hogrel JY. Neuromuscular fatigue in autoimmune myasthenia gravis: A cross-sectional study. Neurophysiol Clin 2023; 53:102844. [PMID: 36827843 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2023.102844] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the presence of increased neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) in individuals with myasthenia gravis (IwMG), compared to healthy controls. A secondary aim was to assess associations between NMF, strength and perceived health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and symptom severity in IwMG. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we assessed NMF using classical myoelectrical indicators (root mean square: RMS, mean power frequency: MPF) obtained from surface electromyography (sEMG) during a sustained submaximal isometric contraction of the right Biceps Brachii and the right Vastus Lateralis and by evaluating the post-effort decline in peak torque following a fatiguing task consisting of a 40-second sustained isometric contraction. Relationships with MG-specific clinical scores (Myasthenia Muscle Score for symptom severity, MGQOL-15-F for HRQoL) were investigated. RESULTS Forty-one females with MG were compared to 18 control females of similar age. IwMG demonstrated reduced strength in both muscle groups, compared to control subjects. In both populations and both limbs, NMF was demonstrated by an increase in RMS and a decrease in MPF. However, IwMG did not demonstrate greater NMF based on these myoelectrical indicators nor based on post-effort peak torque decline. DISCUSSION Despite a decrease in baseline strength, IwMG did not display greater NMF in this specific experimental paradigm. This cohort consisted of individuals with mild-to-moderately severe MG which was well-controlled and stable. Further studies are warranted to identify simple and reliable methods to measure NMF in MG and to understand the relationship between NMF and perceived fatigue in activities of daily living for IwMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Birnbaum
- Neuromuscular Physiology and Evaluation Laboratory, Neuromuscular Investigation Center, Institute of Myology, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France.
| | - Tarek Sharshar
- Anaesthesiology and ICU department, GHU-Psychiatry & Neurosciences, Sainte-Anne Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurosciences of Paris, INSERM U1266, Paris, France
| | - Jacques Ropers
- Clinical Research Unit, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, APHP, 47-83 Bd de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Portero
- Bioingénierie, Tissus et Neuroplasticité, EA 7377 Université Paris-Est Créteil, Faculté de Médecine, 8 rue Jean Sarrail, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Jean-Yves Hogrel
- Neuromuscular Physiology and Evaluation Laboratory, Neuromuscular Investigation Center, Institute of Myology, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
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Punga AR, Westerberg E, Åsenlöf P. Implementation of tailored exercise programs for MG patients in a gym setting: a pragmatic feasibility case study. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:334-338. [PMID: 36931100 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Although supervised aerobic and resistance training in a hospital setting was proven safe and beneficial for well-controlled myasthenia gravis (MG) patients, implementation of similar programs in the community has not been studied. We conducted a pragmatic open-label study at a large gym in Uppsala, Sweden. Seven patients with generalized MG were recruited to participate in an individualized, tailored exercise program, based on individual baseline status and personal goals, with a personal trainer. All patients completed the entire training period. The individually tailored exercise program was implemented safely and effectively, with all patients improving in aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and balance. Our pragmatic open-label case study suggests that well-controlled patients with generalized MG can extend their physical exercise to personal training in the gym. This is an essential step towards reducing the barriers to implementing exercise procols and increasing the availability of these interventions to MG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rostedt Punga
- Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Elisabet Westerberg
- Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Åsenlöf
- Physiotherapy, Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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6
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Alsop T, Williams K, Gomersall S. Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour in People with Myasthenia Gravis: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 9:137-146. [PMID: 34633330 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-210722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite improvements in the medical management of myasthenia gravis (MG) in recent years, patients continue to report poor health and wellbeing outcomes such as high levels of fatigue, reduced quality of life (QoL), walking limitation and lowered balance confidence. Physical activity has been shown to be associated with these outcomes in other populations, however, there has been limited research in adults with MG. OBJECTIVE To describe physical activity and sedentary behaviour in adults with MG and to explore associations between these behaviours and fatigue, QoL, balance confidence and walking limitation. METHODS A self-report online survey was used to assess physical activity, sedentary behaviour, fatigue, QoL, balance confidence and walking limitation in adults with MG. Multiple linear regression was used to examine associations and descriptive statistics were used to analyse participant characteristics, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour. RESULTS Eighty-five adults with MG were included (mean age 48±16 years). Over half of participants (n = 53, 62.4%) reported sufficient physical activity to meet public health guidelines. Participants reported an average of 9 h/day of sedentary time (mean 9.0±3.5). Physical activity and fatigue (R2 = 0.196), QoL (R2 = 0.330), walking limitation (R2 = 0.305) and balance confidence (R2 = 0.304) were significantly (p < 0.05) and positively correlated, with no associations found for sedentary behaviour. When patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour were combined, lower fatigue (R2 = 0.213), higher QoL (R2 = 0.364), reduced walking limitation (R2 = 0.341) and higher balance confidence (R2 = 0.279) was observed in patients who had greater physical activity levels (> 150 mins/week) and lower sedentary time (< 10 h/day). CONCLUSIONS Higher physical activity and lower sedentary behaviour is associated with favorable health and wellbeing outcomes in adults with MG. Further research is required to ascertain whether these behaviours may be an appropriate target intervention to improve outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahlia Alsop
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sjaan Gomersall
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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7
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Birnbaum S, Bachasson D, Sharshar T, Porcher R, Hogrel JY, Portero P. Free-Living Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour in Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 8:689-697. [PMID: 33843693 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-210637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muscle weakness and fatigability, the prominent symptoms of autoimmune myasthenia gravis (MG), negatively impact daily function and quality of life (QoL). It is currently unclear as to what extent symptoms limit activity and whether physical activity (PA) behaviours are associated with reduced QoL. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to describe habitual PA patterns and explore relationships between PA metrics, clinical MG characteristics, and health-related QoL (HRQoL). METHODS PA data from a tri-axial trunk accelerometer worn for seven days, was collected from females with generalized, stable MG and compared to control subjects. MG-specific evaluations, the six-minute walk test and knee extension strength were assessed in individuals with MG (IwMG). Mann-Whitney tests were used to study between-group differences. Spearman rank correlation coefficient was performed to explore relationships between variables. RESULTS Thirty-three IwMG (mean (SD) age 45 (11) years) and 66 control subjects were included. IwMG perform less vigorous-intensity PA than control subjects (p = 0.001), spend more time sedentary (p = 0.02) and engage in less and shorter durations of moderate-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA). For IwMG, habitual PA correlated positively with 6 min walking distance (rho = 0.387, p = 0.029) and negatively with body mass index (rho = -0.407, p = 0.019). We did not find any association between PA or sedentary behaviour and; HRQoL, symptom severity nor lower limb strength. CONCLUSIONS Individuals with stable MG perform less PA, at lower intensities, and are more inactive than control individuals. Further research is warranted to understand factors influencing PA patterns in MG and whether interventions could be successful in increasing PA quantity and intensity in IwMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Birnbaum
- Neuromuscular Physiology and Evaluation Laboratory, Neuromuscular Investigation Center, Institute of Myology, Paris, France.,Bioingénierie, Tissus et Neuroplasticité, EA Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France.,Unité de Recherche Clinique Paris Île-de-France Ouest (URC PIFO), Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, Garches, France
| | - Damien Bachasson
- Neuromuscular Physiology and Evaluation Laboratory, Neuromuscular Investigation Center, Institute of Myology, Paris, France
| | - Tarek Sharshar
- Intensive Care Unit, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, Garches, France.,Paris-Descartes University, France.,Experimental Neuropathology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Raphaël Porcher
- Université de Paris, CRESS, INSERM, INRA, Paris, France.,Centre d'Epidémiologie Clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Yves Hogrel
- Neuromuscular Physiology and Evaluation Laboratory, Neuromuscular Investigation Center, Institute of Myology, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Portero
- Bioingénierie, Tissus et Neuroplasticité, EA Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
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8
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Kahr Andersen L, Vissing J. Habitual Physical Activity in Patients with Myasthenia Gravis Assessed by Accelerometry and Questionnaire. J Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 9:161-169. [PMID: 34334414 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-210693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity (PA) in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) is considered safe and beneficial, and an active lifestyle is required to obtain the health benefits of exercise. However, as the disease leads to physical impairments an insight into the overall PA habits in this patient population is relevant but lacking. OBJECTIVE To measure habitual physical activity in a Danish cohort of patients with MG measured by accelerometer and questionnaire, and to determine relevant predictors for PA intensities. METHODS Habitual physical activity was assessed by; 1) the accelerometer Acti Graph in a cohort of patients recruited from our neuromuscular clinic, 2) the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) in a web-based survey. PA levels were compared to international recommendations. Predictors for PA (age, sex, body mass index, disease severity and duration) were included in the regression analyses. RESULTS Habitual physical activity was measured by accelerometer for 7 days in 69 patients and by questionnaire in 691 patients. Measured by the accelerometer, 46%of the patients did not meet the international recommendations for PA at moderate/vigorous intensity and 57%were below the recommendations for steps per day. Measured by the IPAQ, 48%did not meet the recommendations. Disease severity and age were predictors for PA intensities. CONCLUSIONS This study found that around half of the included patients did not meet the recommendations for PA. This is a concern, as it increases the risk of life-style related diseases. Disease severity and age may be taking into consideration when counseling the patients about PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Kahr Andersen
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital -Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital -Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Ruiter AM, Strijbos E, de Meel RHP, Lipka AF, Raadsheer WF, Tannemaat MR, Verschuuren JJGM. Accuracy of patient-reported data for an online patient registry of autoimmune myasthenia gravis and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Neuromuscul Disord 2021; 31:622-632. [PMID: 34210541 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2021.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Disorders of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) comprise a spectrum of rare diseases causing muscle fatigability and weakness, leading to life-long effects on quality of life. We established the Dutch-Belgian registry for NMJ disorders, based on a unique combination of patient- and physician-reported information. Information on natural course, disease burden, prevalence of complications and comorbidity is collected through patient-reported standardized questionnaires and verified using medical documentation. Currently, the registry contains information of 565 Myasthenia Gravis (MG) patients and 38 Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) patients, constituting approximately 25% (MG) and 80% (LEMS) of patients in the Netherlands. This is a very large registry, with the highest participation rate per capita. In addition to confirming many disease characteristics previously described in the literature, this registry provides several novel insights. The reported rate of potentially corticosteroid-related comorbidity, including hypertension, heart disease, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes was high, emphasizing the need to commence corticosteroid-sparing immune suppressive treatment as soon as possible. The reported rate of other auto-immune diseases is far higher than previously expected: 27% of MG and 38% of LEMS patients, and a surprisingly high number of MG patients (47%) is unaware of their antibody status. In conclusion, this registry provides a valuable collection of information regarding MG and LEMS disease course. Continuous collection of annual follow-up data will provide further longitudinal insights in disease burden, course and treatment effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabel M Ruiter
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands.
| | - Ellen Strijbos
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Robert H P de Meel
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Alexander F Lipka
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Groene Hart Hospital, Gouda, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter F Raadsheer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
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10
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Andersen LK, Aadahl M, Vissing J. Fatigue, physical activity and associated factors in 779 patients with myasthenia gravis. Neuromuscul Disord 2021; 31:716-725. [PMID: 34303571 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to examine the association between fatigue (measured by the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory; MFI-20) and physical activity (measured by the Saltin-Grimby Physical Activity Level Scale; SGPALS) in a large cohort of patients (≥18 years) with myasthenia gravis (MG) including relevant disease - and lifestyle-related factors. A total of 1463 persons, registered at the Danish National Registry of Patients with a MG diagnosis, according to the International Classification of Diseases, received a web-based survey. A total of 779 patients (53% women, mean [SD] age 60.8 [15.5]) responded. The remaining persons were either non-responders (n = 390) or could not confirm the MG diagnosis (n = 294). The most prominent MFI-20 fatigue domains were general fatigue (median [inter-quartile ranges, IQR], 13 [10-16]) and physical fatigue (median [IQR], 13 [9-15]), and 386 (53%) patients reported low levels of physical activity. All fatigue domains were associated with physical activity (p<.01). Higher level of physical activity was associated with lower levels of fatigue. Important factors for the association were myasthenia gravis disease severity (measured by the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living profile), body mass index, insomnia (measured by the Insomnia Severity Index) job-status, comorbidity, and cohabitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Kahr Andersen
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Inge Lehmanns Vej 8, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Mette Aadahl
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Inge Lehmanns Vej 8, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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11
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Westerberg E, Punga AR. Mortality rates and causes of death in Swedish Myasthenia Gravis patients. Neuromuscul Disord 2020; 30:815-824. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2020.08.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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12
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O'Connor L, Westerberg E, Punga AR. Myasthenia Gravis and Physical Exercise: A Novel Paradigm. Front Neurol 2020; 11:675. [PMID: 32849178 PMCID: PMC7403401 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The benefits of physical exercise for healthy individuals are well-established, particularly in relation to reducing the risks of chronic lifestyle related diseases. Furthermore, physical exercise has been seen to provide beneficial effects in many chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is therefore recommended as part of the treatment regimen. Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes neuromuscular transmission failure resulting in abnormal fatigable skeletal muscle weakness. In spite of this fluctuating skeletal muscle weakness, it is reasonable to assume that MG patients, like healthy individuals, could benefit from some of the positive effects of physical exercise. Yet exercise-related research in the field of MG is sparse and does not provide any guidelines on how MG patients should perform physical training in order to obtain exercise's favorable effects without risking disease deterioration or more pronounced muscle fatigue. A handful of recent studies report that MG patients with mild disease activity can adhere safely to general exercise recommendations, including resistance training and aerobic training regimens, without subjective or objective disease deterioration. These findings indicate that MG patients can indeed improve their functional muscle status as a result of aerobic and high-resistance strength training. This knowledge is important in order to establish collective as well as personalized guidelines on physical exercise for MG patients. This review discusses the present knowledge on physical exercise in MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Connor
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Westerberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Farrugia ME, Goodfellow JA. A Practical Approach to Managing Patients With Myasthenia Gravis-Opinions and a Review of the Literature. Front Neurol 2020; 11:604. [PMID: 32733360 PMCID: PMC7358547 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
When the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (MG) has been secured, the aim of management should be prompt symptom control and the induction of remission or minimal manifestations. Symptom control, with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as pyridostigmine, is commonly employed. This may be sufficient in mild disease. There is no single universally accepted treatment regimen. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of immunosuppressive treatment in patients with more than mild MG to induce remission. Immunosuppressive therapies, such as azathioprine are prescribed in addition to but sometimes instead of corticosteroids when background comorbidities preclude or restrict the use of steroids. Rituximab has a role in refractory MG, while plasmapheresis and immunoglobulin therapy are commonly prescribed to treat MG crisis and in some cases of refractory MG. Data from the MGTX trial showed clear evidence that thymectomy is beneficial in patients with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive generalized MG, up to the age of 65 years. Minimally invasive thymectomy surgery including robotic-assisted thymectomy surgery has further revolutionized thymectomy and the management of MG. Ocular MG is not life-threatening but can be significantly disabling when diplopia is persistent. There is evidence to support early treatment with corticosteroids when ocular motility is abnormal and fails to respond to symptomatic treatment. Treatment needs to be individualized in the older age-group depending on specific comorbidities. In the younger age-groups, particularly in women, consideration must be given to the potential teratogenicity of certain therapies. Novel therapies are being developed and trialed, including ones that inhibit complement-induced immunological pathways or interfere with antibody-recycling pathways. Fatigue is common in MG and should be duly identified from fatigable weakness and managed with a combination of physical therapy with or without psychological support. MG patients may also develop dysfunctional breathing and the necessary respiratory physiotherapy techniques need to be implemented to alleviate the patient's symptoms of dyspnoea. In this review, we discuss various facets of myasthenia management in adults with ocular and generalized disease, including some practical approaches and our personal opinions based on our experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Farrugia
- Neurology Department, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - John A Goodfellow
- Neurology Department, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Neuroimmunology Laboratory, Laboratory Medicine and Facilities Building, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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