Hospitalization of Older Patients in MG
Ali Habib, MD, comments on the prevalence of MG in older patients and the increasing rate of hospitalization and mortality within this group.
EP: 1.Presentation of Myasthenia Gravis (MG)
EP: 2.Fatigue and Fluctuating Symptoms in MG
EP: 3.Accurate Diagnosis of MG
EP: 4.Hospitalization of Older Patients in MG
EP: 5.Treatment Approach in MG
EP: 6.Quality of Life in MG
EP: 7.Targeted Therapy Options in MG
EP: 8.Use of Targeted Therapies in the Treatment Algorithm of MG
EP: 9.Modes of Administration for Targeted Treatment in MG
EP: 10.Switching MG Treatment Due to Adverse Events or Poor Disease Control
This is a video synopsis/summary of a panel discussion involving James Howard, MD; Nicholas Silvestri, MD, FAAN; Tuan Vu, MD; Ali Habib, MD; and Beth Stein, MD.
The increasing prevalence of myasthenia among the aging population brings forth significant challenges in disease management. While older onset patients with myasthenia may experience milder symptoms, they face higher rates of hospitalization and mortality, compounded by comorbidities like hypertension and cardiac disease. Traditional therapies, often used in managing myasthenia, may exacerbate these comorbidities. However, advancements in treatment options offer improved safety and tolerability for this demographic.
Aggressiveness in treatment is paramount, as studies suggest that early and aggressive management yields better long-term outcomes and reduces medication exposure. Despite concerns about age-related considerations, there's a consensus among experts to pursue aggressive treatment strategies to ensure quality years for older patients. Modern therapies provide targeted approaches with fewer adverse effects compared to conventional treatments like rituximab.
The evolving landscape of treatment options underscores the need for a nuanced approach, balancing therapeutic efficacy with minimizing adverse effects, especially in older patients. Maintaining a proactive stance in managing myasthenia in the aging population can optimize outcomes and enhance quality of life, aligning with the goal of promoting healthy aging.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by NeurologyLive editorial staff.
