Muscle-Specific Kinase Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis: Report of a Pediatric Case and Literature Review

Neuropediatrics. 2019 Apr;50(2):116-121. doi: 10.1055/s-0038-1676514. Epub 2018 Dec 21.

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) with antibodies to the muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK-MG) receptor is a rare entity. It represents 5 to 8% of all MG patients. Few pediatric cases were reported. Clinical presentation is often atypical. It is characterized by predominant involvement of cranial, bulbar, and axial muscles and early respiratory crises. Myokymia and fasciculation are suggestive of MuSK-MG. The clinical course of patients with MuSK-MG is worse than other types of MG. Responses to standard therapies are variable. We report clinical, neurophysiological, serological, and outcome profile of a Tunisian child with MuSK-MG.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Myasthenia Gravis / blood*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / diagnosis*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / drug therapy
  • Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / blood*
  • Receptors, Cholinergic / blood*
  • Steroids / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Receptors, Cholinergic
  • Steroids
  • MUSK protein, human
  • Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases