Treatment Approaches to Myasthenia Gravis and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Case Report

Sleep Sci. 2024 May 15;17(4):e466-e469. doi: 10.1055/s-0044-1780502. eCollection 2024 Dec.

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive weakness and skeletal muscle fatigue due to the destruction of acetylcholine receptors, causing an abnormality in the synaptic junction between innervation and muscle fibers. The treatment of patients with MG and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is positive pressure in the airway; however, the lack of adherence to the protocol can lead to increased morbidity. A known alternative treatment for OSA is the mandibular advancement device (MAD). The objective of the present report is to describe an emblematic case of a 50-year-old male patient with MG with sleep complaints and documented OSA, and his response to different treatment approaches.

Keywords: mandibular advancement device; myasthenia gravis; obstructive sleep apnea.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

Grants and funding

Funding Source Our studies are supported by the Associação Fundo de Incentivo à Pesquisa (AFIP). S.T. receives a grant from the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq).