Refractory Myasthenia Gravis and Concurrent Alopecia Areata Postthymectomy With Improvements After Cortisone Taper: A Case Report.

Abstract

This case report presents a unique clinical scenario of a 58-year-old male suffering from severe refractory myasthenia gravis and concurrent alopecia areata postthymectomy. Myasthenia gravis, a common autoimmune disorder, is characterized by muscle weakness due to autoantibodies targeting neuromuscular junction proteins. Alopecia areata, another autoimmune disease, is often seen in individuals with myasthenia gravis, suggesting a shared immunological basis. The patient's condition was resistant to conventional treatment, and he developed alopecia areata following thymectomy. Despite the challenges in managing refractory myasthenia gravis and the associated alopecia areata, significant improvements were observed following a cortisone taper. This case highlights the potential therapeutic role of cortisone tapering in managing refractory myasthenia gravis and associated alopecia areata. This case also prompts further exploration into the immunological shifts following thymectomy, particularly its potential role in triggering alopecia areata.