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Correlation of single‐breath count test and neck flexor muscle strength with spirometry in myasthenia gravis
Author(s) -
Elsheikh Bakri,
Arnold W. David,
Gharibshahi Shahram,
Reynolds Jerold,
Freimer Miriam,
Kissel John T.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
muscle and nerve
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.025
H-Index - 145
eISSN - 1097-4598
pISSN - 0148-639X
DOI - 10.1002/mus.24929
Subject(s) - spirometry , medicine , myasthenia gravis , physical therapy , respiratory system , pulmonary function testing , vital capacity , lung function , lung , asthma , diffusing capacity
: Although formal spirometry is the gold standard for monitoring respiratory function in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG), such testing is often delayed or unavailable. There is a need for a simple bedside test that can accurately measure respiratory function. Methods : We conducted a prospective, cross‐sectional, single‐blind study in adults with acetylcholine receptor antibody positive MG. Participants performed the single breath count test (SBCT) and underwent manual muscle strength testing, and a respiratory therapist performed spirometry blinded to SBCT and strength results. Results : Thirty‐one patients, aged 57 ± 19 years participated. SBCT showed significant correlations with forced vital capacity (FVC), negative inspiratory force, and neck flexor strength ( P < 0.01). FVC showed significant correlation with neck flexor strength ( P = 0.02) but no correlation with shoulder abductor strength. Conclusions : These data suggest that the SBCT and neck flexor strength testing are valuable tools for bedside assessment of respiratory function in MG patients. Muscle Nerve 53 : 134–136, 2016