- https:
//www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/health-library/myasthenia-gravis-mg-in-children [last accessed November 2023] - https
://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=myasthenia-gravis-in-children-90-P02612 [last accessed November 2023] - https
://www.medscape.com/answers/1171206-92686/what-is-neonatal-myasthenia-gravis-mg-and-how-is-it-managed [last accessed November 2023] - https
://myhealth.ucsd.edu/Search/90,P02612 [last accessed November 2023]
Treatment for Children
For parents with children suffering from TNGM or JMG, it can be a worrying and confusing time. Your healthcare provider can help you decide which treatment or treatments are right for your child. They will advise you following a physical examination and an assessment of their condition. Your healthcare provider will also consider your child's age, symptoms, general health, and the severity of their particular type of MG.
Transient Neonatal Myasthenia Gravis (TNMG)
As TNMG is caused by the presence of maternal antibodies in newborn infants, the disease goes away on its own within a few weeks or months as the antibodies are metabolised.
While symptoms are present, infants may require respiratory support and intravenous feeding, and may need to be monitored in an intensive care unit. Treatment with AChE inhibitors may also be effective, but it must be carefully administered.
Juvenile Myasthenia Gravis (JMG)
For Juvenile MG, there is no cure, and the condition tends to be lifelong. However, there are some ways you can help to control your child's MG.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (or immune globulin) adds a large quantity of normal antibodies from combined donated blood into your child's bloodstream. The therapy uses a mixture of antibodies and is usually given by injection into a muscle, a vein or under the skin.
Your child may also benefit from breathing support, such as a ventilator to breathe. If your child has difficulty swallowing, they may need additional nutritional support and be tube-fed. Your healthcare provider will advise you on the best course of action.
If you are concerned about anything you have read in this article, please seek advice from your healthcare provider.
References
Reporting side effects
You can help by reporting any side effects you may get. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the patient information leaflet. You can also report side effects directly in the UK via the Yellow Card Scheme website: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or via the MHRA Yellow Card App in the Google Play or Apple App Store. In Ireland please report via the HPRA at https://www.hpra.ie/homepage/about-us/report-an-issue.
You can also report adverse events to UCB at UCBCares.UK@ucb.com or UCBCares.IE@ucb.com