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Seronegative Myasthenia Gravis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: Response to Intravenous Gamma Globulin and Prednisone

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

James Strong  and
Douglas W. Zochodne
James Strong
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary.
Douglas W. Zochodne*
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary.
*
University of Calgary, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Room I82A, 3330 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N4N1 254
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Abstract:

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Background:

There are only rare reports of myasthenia gravis complicating human immunodeficiency virus infection. The role of immunomodulatory therapy is unknown.

Methods:

Case report and literature review.

Results:

The diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus infection followed that of myasthenia gravis in a 35-year-old man. Clinical and electrophysiological features were diagnostic of generalized myasthenia gravis but two edrophonium chloride tests and acetylcholine receptor antibodies were negative. Prednisone therapy and intravenous gamma globulin were associated with rapid clinical recovery.

Conclusions:

Prednisone therapy and intravenous gamma globulin may be helpful in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis complicating HIV infection.

Type
Original Articles
Information
Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences , Volume 25 , Issue 3 , August 1998 , pp. 254 - 256
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1998

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