MYASTHENIA GRAVIS AND MYASTHENIC SYNDROMES TREATED WITH PREDNISONE

Prednisone treatment resulted in a complete or almost complete remission in 10 of 13 courses in 6 of 7 patients with myasthenia gravis or a myasthenic syndrome. In none of the patients did an initial exacerbation occur. If prednisone was withdrawn a relapse followed in a few weeks. 3 patients have been almost free from symptoms for 3½1/2–5 years on a maintenance medication. The average age of the patients was very high and perhaps prednisone has special value in the treatment of older myasthenic patients. Prednisone is probably superior to ACTH in the treatment of myasthenic patients refractory to anticholinesterase medication, because an initial exacerbation of symptoms is rare and maintenance therapy is more convenient.