Double seronegative myasthenia gravis and mimics: a retrospective cross-sectional study by two tertiary centers in the Southern Italy.

Abstract

Background: Seronegative myasthenia gravis (MG) accounts for ~ 10% of MG cases, often with mild to moderate symptoms. Diagnosis is frequently delayed or incorrect. Advanced serological, neurophysiological, and objective testing is essential to differentiate MG from similar conditions, avoid misdiagnosis, and ensure appropriate care.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 80 patients diagnosed with double-seronegative MG (dSNMG) from 2012 to March 2024 across 2 neuromuscular centers (Palermo and Salerno). Demographic, clinical, neurophysiological, and comorbidity data were reviewed to confirm or exclude MG after follow-up.

Results: MG diagnosis was confirmed in 64% of cases (n = 51), while 36% (n = 29) received alternative diagnoses. Repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) and single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG) were highly accurate in identifying MG. Among MG mimics, functional disorders were most frequent (45%), followed by oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy, benign essential blepharospasm, Basedow-Graves ophthalmopathy, and refraction defects. MG mimics had longer diagnostic delays and a higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders. Confirmed MG cases were predominantly female, with a median onset age of 50 years; 67% had mild to moderate disease (MGFA class I-II). These patients required higher pyridostigmine doses and had common comorbidities, including hypertension, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases.

Conclusion: Diagnosing seronegative MG is challenging. In our cohort, neurophysiological testing played a key role in confirming MG, which presented mostly as a mild to moderate form responsive to symptomatic treatment. Notably, 45% of alternative diagnoses were functional disorders.