Neuropediatrics 2005; 36(6): 353-356
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-872879
Original Article

Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Juvenile Limb-Girdle Myasthenia Gravis

C. Rodolico1 , C. Pastura1 , S. Sinicropi1 , P. Girlanda1 , A. Toscano1 , C. Messina1 , G. Vita1
  • 1Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiology, University of Messina, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Received: June 10, 2005

Accepted after Revision: September 7, 2005

Publication Date:
24 November 2005 (online)

Abstract

Limb-girdle myasthenia is a rare disorder which includes familial and autoimmune forms. Myasthenia gravis is an uncommon disease in children and its diagnosis may be difficult. We report here five cases of autoimmune juvenile LGM starting before the age of 16 years with attention to clinical diagnostic difficulties, evolution, laboratory and instrumental data as well as response to treatment. Diagnosis of limb-girdle myasthenia requires a strong index of suspicion also in childhood. We suggest that this form be suspected in children with unclassifiable myopathy, mostly affecting deltoid muscles and lower extremities.

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Carmelo Rodolico

Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiology
AOU “G. Martino”

Via C. Valeria

98125 Messina

Italy

Email: crodolico@unime.it