Myasthenia gravis: prolonged treatment with steroids

Neurology. 1984 Feb;34(2):170-4. doi: 10.1212/wnl.34.2.170.

Abstract

We have evaluated chronic corticosteroid treatment in 60 myasthenic patients; 92% were followed for more than 3 years and 82% longer than 4 years. Improvement was noted in 72% of the patients. The best results were seen in those whose symptoms started after the age of 40 years. There was a correlation between the starting dose of prednisone and the rate of improvement. Complete withdrawal of steroids was possible only for 3 patients.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Critical Care
  • Dexamethasone / adverse effects
  • Dexamethasone / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myasthenia Gravis / drug therapy*
  • Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care
  • Prednisone / adverse effects
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use*
  • Thymectomy
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Dexamethasone
  • Prednisone