Myasthenic crisis in the setting of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

J Clin Anesth. 2020 Dec:67:110001. doi: 10.1016/j.jclinane.2020.110001. Epub 2020 Jul 19.

Abstract

  1. A patient with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) on immunosuppressive therapy with underlying respiratory compromise may be more susceptible to infection with COVID-19 or severe manifestations of the virus.

  2. It is theorized that patients with MG may be more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections, due to respiratory muscle weakness and use of immunosuppressive medications.

  3. It is critical for practitioners to be prepared for severe respiratory compromise in patients with MG and concomitant COVID-19 superinfection.

  4. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, MG patients should be encouraged to continue their current treatment regimens, but engage in extra vigilant social distancing.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • COVID-19*
  • Disease Progression
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myasthenia Gravis / complications
  • Myasthenia Gravis / therapy*
  • Pandemics
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / etiology
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / therapy
  • Tracheostomy