Clinical Report: Efgartigimod as a Promising Treatment for Concurrent Stiff-Person Syndrome and Myasthenia Gravis Associated with Thymoma
Overview
This case study presents a 43-year-old woman with concurrent stiff-person syndrome (SPS) and myasthenia gravis (MG) associated with thymoma. Treatment with efgartigimod was initiated after conventional therapies failed.
Background
The coexistence of SPS and MG is exceptionally rare, with fewer than 20 cases reported, often linked to thymoma. Understanding this association is crucial for diagnosing and managing complex autoimmune conditions.
Data Highlights
No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.
Key Findings
The patient was diagnosed with SPS based on positive anti-GAD antibodies and characteristic electromyographic findings.
Four years after SPS diagnosis, the patient developed anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive MG associated with type B2 thymoma.
Conventional treatments, including plasma exchange and corticosteroids, failed to improve the patient's MG symptoms.
Efgartigimod treatment resulted in recovery of respiratory and motor function within one month.
No recurrence of SPS symptoms or MG exacerbation was observed during follow-up through December 2025.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should consider the potential for overlapping autoimmune disorders in patients with SPS, particularly in the context of thymoma.
Conclusion
This case highlights the complexity of managing concurrent SPS and MG.
