[ORL manifestations of myasthenia gravis]

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis is an illness of insidious onset whose first manifestation often is dysphagia. We report the case of a 25 year-old woman who consulted for nosebleed. On her first visit she referred progressive dysphagia, but the results of endoscopic digestive examination and indirect laryngoscopy were normal. The condition evolved until the appearance of weakness of the extremities suggested myasthenia. Myasthenia gravis was diagnosed by means of electromyography and determinations of antibodies against acetylcholine receptors. We reviewed the literature on the clinical manifestations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment of this condition. This case highlights the importance of suspecting myasthenia gravis in young women with dysphagia and a family or personal history of autoimmune disease in order to reach an early diagnosis and treatment.