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Use of mycophenolate mofetil as a rescue agent in the treatment of severe generalized myasthenia gravis in three dogs |
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| Authors: | Amanda L Abelson DVM ; G Diane Shelton DVM PhD ; Megan F Whelan DVM DACVECC ; Lilian Cornejo DVM DACVIM ; Scott Shaw DVM DACVECC and Therese E O'Toole DVM DACVIM |
| Institution: | Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01356;;Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 9037;;Department of Emergency and Critical Care, Angell Animal Medical Center, Boston, MA 02130 |
| Abstract: | 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. |
| Keywords: | acetylcholine receptor antibody immunosuppressive agents megaesophagus neuromuscular disease purine analog |