Increased subsequent risk of myasthenia gravis in children with allergic diseases

J Neuroimmunol. 2014 Nov 15;276(1-2):202-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2014.08.627. Epub 2014 Sep 4.

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction. The initiating factors of MG remain unclear. However, allergy has been regarded as a potential risk factor. We included 410 children with MG diagnosed between 2000 and 2008, as well as 1640 randomly selected controls. The odds ratios of MG were calculated to determine the association between MG and preexisting allergic diseases. The children with allergic diseases were at increased subsequent risk of MG, which was associated with the cumulative effect of the concurrent allergic diseases and the frequency of seeking medical care.

Keywords: Allergic conjunctivitis; Allergic rhinitis; Asthma; Atopic dermatitis; Myasthenia gravis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Age Distribution
  • Age Factors
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / epidemiology*
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Myasthenia Gravis / epidemiology*
  • National Health Programs / statistics & numerical data
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Taiwan / epidemiology