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Use of mycophenolate mofetil as a rescue agent in the treatment of severe generalized myasthenia gravis in three dogs
Author(s) -
Abelson Amanda L.,
Shelton G. Diane,
Whelan Megan F.,
Cornejo Lilian,
Shaw Scott,
O'Toole Therese E.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
journal of veterinary emergency and critical care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.886
H-Index - 47
eISSN - 1476-4431
pISSN - 1479-3261
DOI - 10.1111/j.1476-4431.2009.00433.x
Subject(s) - medicine , myasthenia gravis , pyridostigmine , megaesophagus , mycophenolate , adverse effect , adjunctive treatment , gastroenterology , surgery , anesthesia , transplantation , esophagus
Objective– To describe the use of IV and oral mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) as adjunctive therapy in 3 dogs with severe generalized myasthenia gravis. Case Series Summary– Three dogs suffering from severe generalized myasthenia gravis as confirmed by acetylcholine antibody titers were treated with MMF as part of their treatment regimens. All 3 dogs had radiographic evidence of megaesophagus and suffered from severe regurgitation. Each dog was initially treated with pyridostigmine and supportive agents. When clinical remission was not achieved, IV MMF was administered to all dogs. Signs of clinical remission were apparent within 48 hours and all dogs were later maintained on oral MMF following resolution of regurgitation. New or Unique Information Provided– This is the first report of the use of IV MMF as adjunctive treatment in dogs with severe generalized myasthenia gravis. Outcome was favorable in all 3 dogs and no adverse effects were noted from the MMF.