Hyderabad – July 19, 2024: The Paediatric team at Citizens Specialty Hospital in Hyderabad, has successfully treated a 14-year-old girl suffering from Myasthenia gravis, a rare condition with life-threatening complications. The patient was brought to the Emergency Department with severe low oxygen levels. For the past two years, she had experienced difficulty in eating, she could only consume liquids, and was unable to walk without support. Despite receiving treatment from various doctors and hospitals, her condition deteriorated, and she was severely underweight at 32 kg upon admission.
Upon evaluation by Dr Kiran Kumar, Senior Paediatrician & Neonatologist, she was diagnosed with paralysis of the throat muscles, weakness of the tongue, facial muscles, arms, and legs. The patient required intubation and ventilation for a few days and was treated for aspiration pneumonia. She was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) and presented with a Myasthenic crisis, a life-threatening manifestation of the condition. Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder that requires lifelong treatment and is seen in only 1-3 per million children. The Paediatric team provided timely and effective treatment for this critical condition, with Dr Aparna, Neurologist, involved in further management.
Dr Kiran Kumar, reflecting on the case, stated, "This case was particularly challenging due to the severity and complexity of the condition. Our team worked diligently to provide the best possible care, and we are delighted with the patient's rapid improvement. Her recovery emphasizes on the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention in managing rare and life-threatening conditions."
Harish Trivedi, CEO of CTSI - South Asia, added, "This case demonstrates our commitment to providing world-class healthcare services and highlight’s the importance of specialized care in treating rare conditions. The remarkable recovery of this young patient is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our medical team at Citizens Specialty Hospital."
Dr Prabhakar, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Citizens Specialty Hospital, commented on the successful treatment, "The successful management of this rare and life-threatening condition underscores the exceptional capabilities of our Pediatric team. We are proud of the high standard of care provided by our dedicated medical professionals at our hospital."
After initiating treatment for MG, the patient showed remarkable improvement and was successfully removed from the ventilator. Her muscle weakness and paralysis resolved, and she transitioned from a liquid diet to solid food. She regained her ability to walk and was discharged with nutritional support. On follow-up, she was found to be eating and drinking normally, walking independently without any support, and had gained weight.
