Thymectomy in Myasthenia Gravis: 2 cases report

흉선절제에 의한 근무력증 치료 2례 보고

Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder manifested by fatigability and weakness of voluntary muscles. The basic defect in the myasthenia is reduction of available acetylcholine receptors at neuromuscuiar junctions by an autoimmune attack. Removal of the thymus gland now play an Important role in the management of this disease. We have two experiences of thymectomy for myasthenic patients. The 31-year-old housewife(J.H) was admitted to the Taegu Presbyterian Medical Center because of bilateral ptosis, mastication and swallowing difficulties. The presence of thymoma was strongly suggested by roentgenographic studies. A 99.8 gm thymoma was removed completely by total thymectomy. On the 2nd postoperative day respiratory failure developed. Tracheostomy was performed and ventilatory assist was given for 3 days. The patient was completely recovered with antichollestrase drug only. C.N. was 17-year-old girl who has the symptoms of bilateral ptosis and diplopia for 3 years. Tensilon test was positive and antichollnestrase was given for several months, but the patient showed no improvement. After thymectomy she was free from myasthenic symptoms with out anticholinestrase drug.