Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) infection has been reported to promote myasthenia gravis (MG) and various other diseases that have a presumed autoimmune pathogenesis. Molecular mimicry between WNV proteins and host proteins has been postulated as the major mechanism for WNV-triggered breaking of immunological self-tolerance. We present a patient with stable ocular MG and positive anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies who progressed to myasthenic crisis after WNV neuroinvasive disease. In this case of stable autoimmune disease with proven auto-antibodies, transformation to generalized disease cannot be attributed to molecular mimicry, which requires that an immune response first be generated against an infectious agent. Rather, the evidence supports the concept of a post-infectious pro-inflammatory state that may contribute to the amplification and promotion of autoimmune disease in some WNV survivors.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
