James Strong and Douglas W. Zochodne

Abstract: Background: There are only rare reports of myasthenia gravis complicating human immunodeficiency virus infection. The role of immunomodulatory therapy is unknown. Methods: Case report and literature review. Results: The diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus infection followed that of myasthenia gravis in a 35-year-old man. Clinical and electrophysiological features were diagnostic of generalized myasthenia gravis but two edrophonium chloride tests and acetylcholine receptor antibodies were negative. Prednisone therapy and intravenous gamma globulin were associated with rapid clinical recovery. Conclusions: Prednisone therapy and intravenous gamma globulin may be helpful in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis complicating HIV infection.

Can. J. Neurol. Sci. 1998; 25: 254-256