Case report: respiratory failure – don’t forget myasthenia!

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare autoimmune disease in which antibodies bind to acetylcholine receptors in the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction. Muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) antibody-associated MG patients often have severe symptoms, including bulbar dysfunction, respiratory insufficiency, and atrophy of the facial and tongue muscles. Due to its fluctuating nature and the similarity to the symptoms other disorders MG is one of the most challenging medical diagnoses.Fluctuating character and the similarity of symptoms to those of other disorders make MG one of the most challenging medical diagnoses. Initial misdiagnosis of MuSK-MG can lead to worsening of symptoms. The diagnosis is confirmed by positive results on pharmacological testing, electrodiagnostictesting and serum antibodyassay. Symptomatic, immunoactive, and supportive approaches to therapy have very good effect and the prognosis is improved with precocious interventions.