The Clinical Course of Childhood Myasthenia Gravis

ABSTRACT

The clinical course of nine cases of myasthenia gravis in the young age group was reviewed. All patients included in the study were under the age of 17 years and had more than 2 year follow-up. There were 5 males and 4 females, with onset of symptoms between 1 7/12 and 13 years (mean5.8 years). All patients were initially presented with ptosis and 5 cases out of 9 cases were presented with diplopia concomittantly. Previous infection history was noted in 2 cases out of 9 cases. Ocular type was predominate (78%) and in 4 cases out of 9 cases of ocular type, complete remission was eventually developed. In the remaining 3 cases, 2 cases were improved and one case remained unchanged. In generalized type, one case was improved and one case became worse. All of these findings indicate that childhood myasthenia gravis has good prognosis and special attentions are needed for the proper treatment.