[Use of alternative treatments by patients with myasthenia gravis]

To analyse the use of alternative treatments by patients before and after myasthenia gravis was diagnosed, and the influence on the diagnostic delay.

Retrospective study.

University Hospital Groningen, Netherlands.

A questionnaire was sent to 90 consecutive patients with myasthenia gravis to inquire about their use of alternative treatments.

Of the 72 respondents 18 had used alternative treatments. Of these 11 had even done so before diagnosis. The most important reason for the use was the lack of understanding and trust that these patients said they experienced from their regular doctors. Almost all patients discontinued alternative treatment when it became clear that it had no effect. Compared with those not using alternatives, the diagnosis was delayed in the group of patients using alternative treatments, but not significantly.

More attention for patients with chronic and undefined complaints may shorten the delay in diagnosing and treating myasthenia gravis adequately.