Effects of the thymectomy in a rehabilitation program and in Quality of Life in patients with myasthenia gravis

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to estimate the effects of a rehabilitation program on patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) subordinates to thymectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were evaluated at baseline (T1) and at the end of the pulmonary rehabilitation (T2), by undergoing spirometric measurements, 6-Minutes Walking Test (6MWT), Berg Balance Scales (BBS), Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI) and Short 36 Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2). The rehabilitation program included exercise to improve the respiratory functionality, the cardiovascular fitness and the global posture.

OUTCOME: A single patient obtained improvement pulmonary function, unmodified in the others two patients. Mobility and balance, estimated by the RMI and BBS, effort tolerance, estimated by the 6-MWT, QOL, estimated by means of SF36v2 improved, and dyspnoea (Borg scale) reduction was obtained in all of the patients.

DISCUSSION: A specific rehabilitative protocol does not exist for the patients with MG subordinates to thymectomy. The AA. conclude that the training relieves dyspnoea, increases the capacity to walk, and improves health-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION: Future studies will define the role of the rehabilitation for these patients and will optimize the protocol.