Severity and antibodies profile of seropositive myasthenia gravis

Abstract

Background: Myasthenia gravis (MG), an autoimmune disease, affects the neuromuscular junction. The impaired neuromuscular transmission results in fatigable muscle weakness among MG patients. Positive antibodies are found among MG patients. Aims: The main aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation of MG severity with their anti-muscle-specific kinase (MUSK) and anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody status. Moreover, the study also identifies the correlation between the antibodies profile and the severity of a seropositive MG. Setting and Design: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the tertiary center of the western region of Saudi Arabia named King Abdullah Medical City (Makkah) over 8 years, from January 2011 to December 2019. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia in King Abdullah Medical City (Makkah) over 8 years, from January 2011 to December 2019 was reviewed. Seventeen patients out of 27 MG patients came out to be seropositive. The correlation was investigated between severity and antibody status. Statistical Analysis: Data were collected in an Excel sheet, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21 software. Results: The results showed that most patients (87.5%) were positive for AChR antibodies only, while others (12.5%) were positive for anti-MUSK and anti-AChR. Thymoma and crisis were observed in 100% with dual seropositivity and 21% with single seropositivity. Conclusion: The study concluded that a severely aggressive course of MG is present among patients. However, detailed clinical trial studies are required for conforming MG severity and dual seropositivity.