# Seronegative Myasthenia Gravis: A Rare Disease Triggered by SARS-CoV-2 or a Coincidence?

**Authors:** Beatriz Castro Silva, Miguel Saianda Duarte, Nuno Rodrigues Alves, Patricia Vicente, José Araújo

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.67511 · 2024-08-22

## TL;DR

A patient developed myasthenia gravis after a SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting a possible link between the virus and autoimmune disease onset.

## Contribution

This case report highlights a potential causal relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the onset of seronegative myasthenia gravis.

## Key findings

- A patient with no prior MG history developed symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- The case suggests SARS-CoV-2 may trigger autoimmune responses leading to MG.
- Seronegative MG can occur in the context of viral infections like COVID-19.

## Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) results from the production of autoantibodies against the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, it is known that the onset and exacerbations of MG can occur after viral infections. We present the case of a patient with no prior history of MG with new-onset proximal muscle weakness and ptosis, following SARS-CoV-2 infection, This case underscores the potential for autoimmune diseases to be triggered by SARS-CoV-2.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** myasthenia gravis (MONDO:0009688), SARS-CoV-2 (MONDO:0100096)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** viral infections (MESH:D014777), muscle weakness (MESH:D018908), autoimmune diseases (MESH:D001327), MG (MESH:D009157), ptosis (MESH:C564553)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606], Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (no rank) [taxon 2697049]

## Figures

1 figure with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11417286/full.md

---
Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11417286