Eye-Opener: A Case Report of Eyelid Taping as Presenting Symptom of Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction that can cause various symptoms provoking a visit to the emergency department (ED). In this case, we present a 54-year-old female who reported having her eyes "taped open" for the last two months. Her history and physical exam findings in the ED raised suspicion for MG. The patient was subsequently admitted and started on pyridostigmine. An elevated acetylcholinesterase receptor-binding antibody level confirmed the diagnosis of MG. This case report highlights the characteristic progressive weakness of facial muscles in MG, emphasizing the importance of early recognition of MG symptoms by emergency clinicians in order to initiate appropriate management and prevent respiratory compromise and morbidity.

Neurology, neurologic exam, myasthenia gravis, emergency medicine.