Characteristics of myasthenia gravis according to data from the regional register (Rostov-on-Don)

Objective: clinical characteristics of a cohort of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) included in the city registry, with an assessment of the demographic, phenotypic and therapeutic characteristics of this sample.

Material and methods. A prospective study was conducted using the regional register of patients with MG, established at the clinic of Rostov State Medical University, drawing on data from the city’s polyclinics for the period 2012–2023. The study included 198 patients residing in Rostov-onDon with a confirmed diagnosis of MG, verified on the basis of clinical, pharmacological, electromyographic and immunological criteria. The prevalence, incidence, age and sex distribution, time to diagnosis, clinical forms and nature of the treatment administered were analyzed.

Results. As at 1 January 2024, 198 patients with MG were registered in Rostov-on-Don. The prevalence was 17.36 per 100,000 population, and the incidence was 1.05 per 100,000. Between 2004 and 2024, the prevalence rose from 1.8 to 17.36 per 100,000. The median age at onset was 47.5 years (36 years for women and 59 years for men). The female-to-male ratio was 2:1. The median time from the onset of the first symptoms to diagnosis was 12 months. The generalized form was identified in 85 percent of patients, and the refractory form in 65.7 percent. Thymoma was diagnosed in 9.3 percent of patients. 66.7 percent of patients receive pathogenetic therapy.

Conclusion. A steady increase in the prevalence and incidence of MG has been observed in the Rostov Region, in line with global trends, along with a high proportion of patients with a refractory course of the disease. The findings highlight the need to improve the specialist care system and to enhance patients’ adherence to treatment.

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