Correlation of single‐breath count test and neck flexor muscle strength with spirometry in myasthenia gravis. Issue 1 (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Elsheikh, Bakri; Arnold, W. David; Gharibshahi, Shahram; Reynolds, Jerold; Freimer, Miriam; Kissel, John T.
• Is Part Of: Muscle & nerve. Volume 53:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 134
• Page End: 136
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: forced vital capacity -- myasthenia gravis -- neck flexor strength -- negative inspiratory force -- spirometry -- single breath count; Neuromuscular diseases -- Periodicals; Muscles -- Periodicals; Nerves -- Periodicals; 616.74
• DOI: 10.1002/mus.24929
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0148-639X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction : Although formal spirometry is the gold standard for monitoring respiratory function in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG), such testing is often delayed or unavailable. There is a need for a simple bedside test that can accurately measure respiratory function. Methods : We conducted a prospective, cross‐sectional, single‐blind study in adults with acetylcholine receptor antibody positive MG. Participants performed the single breath count test (SBCT) and underwent manual muscle strength testing, and a respiratory therapist performed spirometry blinded to SBCT and strength results. Results : Thirty‐one patients, aged 57 ± 19 years participated. SBCT showed significant correlations with forced vital capacity (FVC), negative inspiratory force, and neck flexor strength ( P < 0.01). FVC showed significant correlation with neck flexor strength ( P = 0.02) but no correlation with shoulder abductor strength. Conclusions : These data suggest that the SBCT and neck flexor strength testing are valuable tools for bedside assessment of respiratory function in MG patients. Muscle Nerve 53 : 134–136, 2016