LATE-ONSET MYASTHENIA GRAVIS: A REVIEW WHEN INCIDENCE IN OLDER ADULTS KEEPS INCREASING

We define late-onset myasthenia gravis (LOMG) when symptoms appear at 65 years of age. There has been a continuous increase in the incidence of LOMG with a clear male predominance. Commonly, patients present with focal (ocular or bulbar) weakness. A high index of suspicion required to achieve early diagnosis and to improve prognosis. Management options include acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, steroids, and immunosuppressants. The most controversial issue in treatment is thymectomy, because not enough data are available. Successful treatment is associated with improved survival, and death is often secondary to comorbidities.