Plasma exchange therapy for severe penicillamine-induced myasthenia gravis

Two rheumatoid patients with typical D-penicillamine-induced myasthenia gravis, both resistant to anticholinesterase therapy, were treated with intensive plasma exchange. With this therapy, both patients quickly regained normal muscle power. Plasma exchange therapy may benefit penicillamine-induced myasthenic patients who develop life-threatening weakness despite withdrawal of D-penicillamine and the use of anticholinesterase medication.