An unusual initiation of an ocular form of MuSK-positive myasthenia gravis after magnesium administration: a rare case report

Abstract

Introduction and importance:

The primary clinical symptom in people with myasthenia gravis (MG) is muscle weakness that gets worse with activity and gets better with rest; often, the first symptoms are ocular ones, such as ptosis and double vision. On the other hand, individuals with anti-muscle-specific tyrosine kinase may present with unusual symptoms. Nonetheless, it is hypothesized that muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibodies may be present when no antibodies are present, along with bulbar and respiratory symptoms.

Case presentation:

A 26-year-old pregnant patient was referred to the Neurology Department after experiencing tongue enlargement. A neuro-ophthalmic assessment revealed ptosis with lateral diplopia in the right eye, bulbar palsy, facial weakness, weakness in the palate and pharyngeal reflex, dizziness, and hearing loss in her right ear. The patient was given magnesium sulfate for 2 days since pre-eclampsia was suspected; however, this treatment exacerbated the development of symptoms and was discontinued. Her MG symptoms gradually improved after starting medication. Nonetheless, bilateral weakness in the neck and limb flexion persisted. Following a few days of therapy, there were no indications of diplopia, swallowing was normal, and the muscular weakness was somewhat improved.

Clinical discussion:

The patient was put on drug treatment for MG (predlon 60 mg daily, amioran 50 mg twice daily, and mistenon).

Conclusion:

Treating severe MG patients with a customized approach aims to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Reduce muscle weakness, eradicate circulating antibodies, and suppress the abnormal immunological response. Minimizing side effects while attaining ideal symptom control is the ultimate objective.