How is myasthenic crisis treated in a neuro-ICU?
With proper ventilatory support, the prognosis of myasthenic crisis is good, with a mortality rate of about 5%. Plasmapheresis involves the process of removing blood from the body and “cleansing” if of antibodies directed against acetylcholine receptors. It results in short-term improvement in 75% of patients, and can reduce the duration of intubation and mechanical ventilation. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is another treatment option, but has not been adequately tested yet. Treatment by an experienced team of physicians focuses minimizing the amount of time on the respirator, limiting complications, and reducing the duration of illness.
