Response to control of hyperthyroidism in patients with myasthenia gravis and thyrotoxicosis

Br J Clin Pract. 1990 Dec;44(12):742-4.

Abstract

Three patients presenting with both myasthenia gravis and thyrotoxicosis were treated initially with pyridostigmine and carbimazole respectively. Control of the hyperthyroidism was achieved in all cases but was accompanied by deterioration of the myasthenic symptoms in two and persistence in one. Thymectomy was performed with subsequent improvement in all three patients. Histology showed thymic hyperplasia in each case. The relationship of myasthenia gravis, thyrotoxicosis and the thymus is discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autoimmune Diseases / complications*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myasthenia Gravis / complications*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / therapy
  • Thymectomy*
  • Thyrotoxicosis / complications*
  • Thyrotoxicosis / therapy