# Atypical Presentations of Myasthenia Gravis as Acute Respiratory Failure: A Rare Case

## TL;DR

A rare case shows myasthenia gravis can first appear as sudden breathing trouble, highlighting the need to consider this condition in such situations.

## Contribution

This case report presents an atypical initial presentation of myasthenia gravis as acute respiratory failure.

## Key findings

- The patient initially showed acute respiratory distress before being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis.
- Respiratory symptoms can be an early sign of myasthenia gravis, even without typical muscle weakness.
- Recognizing respiratory issues is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of myasthenia gravis.

## Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic neuromuscular disease characterized by the progressive weakness of voluntary muscles, which encompass those in the face, throat, diaphragm, and those attached to bones. Patients commonly present with specific muscle weakness, such as difficulty in eye movement, facial expression, or swallowing, rather than generalized fatigue. However, as the disease advances, the majority of patients develop respiratory symptoms, which can significantly impact their quality of life. This makes the management of respiratory comorbidities essential, as respiratory tract infections can lead to exacerbations of MG and trigger a myasthenic crisis, necessitating immediate medical intervention. This report highlights a patient who initially presented with acute respiratory distress and was subsequently diagnosed with MG, underscoring the importance of recognizing respiratory symptoms in the context of this condition.