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Myasthenia gravis (MG): a preliminary report
S el-Zunni1, P S Prakash, M Saitti
1Department of Medicine Faculty of Medicine Al-Arab Medical university, Benghazi, Libya.
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|March 1, 1996
Summary
This study reviewed 18 Myasthenia Gravis (MG) cases, finding generalized MG common and delayed diagnosis frequent. Treatment involved anticholinesterase, steroids, and in some cases, thymectomy, with varied outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease.
- Understanding MG demographics and clinical presentation is crucial for effective management.
Observation:
- A review of 18 MG cases in Benghazi, Libya, from 1991-1994.
- The female to male ratio was 2.6:1, with males presenting later (mean age 39.8 years) than females (mean age 26.5 years).
- The average diagnostic delay was 2.5 years, with 94.5% presenting with generalized MG.
Findings:
- 83% of patients had abnormal repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) tests.
- Thyroid disorders were noted in 11.1% of cases.
- Treatment included anticholinesterase (100%), steroids (22.2%), and thymectomy (44.4%). Thymus hyperplasia was observed in 50% of thymectomized patients, with no thymoma cases.
Implications:
- Treatment outcomes varied, with 12.5% achieving complete remission post-thymectomy.
- 62.5% improved with reduced medication, while 25% required plasmapheresis and immunosuppressants.
- Long-term follow-up is essential for patients with refractory Myasthenia Gravis.