We examined the clinical effectiveness of rituximab in fourteen patients with refractory myasthenia gravis (MG). Manual muscle testing (MMT) score was recorded at baseline and followed during the course of the study. Steroid dose, frequency of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusions, and plasma exchange (PLEX) were also monitored throughout the duration of the study. All patients responded dramatically to rituximab, as measured by a change in MMT score, prednisone dose, or the frequency of IVIG infusions or PLEX. Rituximab appears safe and effective for the treatment of refractory MG. It should be considered as a therapeutic option in refractory patients.

Sustained clinical improvement was associated with rituximab after 1 cycle, with prolonged time to relapse and reduction in steroid dosage. Muscle Nerve 58: 453-456, 2018.

This study provides Class IV evidence that in patients with mild to moderate MG exacerbation, SCIg is safe and effective in reducing MG disability measures.

Aim To identify and summarize the available science on prone resuscitation. To determine the value of undertaking a systematic review on this topic; and to identify knowledge gaps to aid future research, education and guidelines. Methods This review was guided by specific methodological framework and reporting items (PRISMA-ScR). We included studies, cases and grey literature regarding prone position and CPR/cardiac arrest. The databases searched were MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus and Google Scholar. Expanded grey literature searching included internet search engine, targeted websites and social media. Results Of 453 identified studies, 24 (5%) studies met our inclusion criteria. There were four prone resuscitation-relevant studies examining: blood and tidal volumes generated by prone compressions; prone compression quality metrics on a manikin; and chest computed tomography scans for compression landmarking. Twenty case reports/series described the resuscitation of 25 prone patients. Prone compression quality was assessed by invasive blood pressure monitoring, exhaled carbon dioxide and pulse palpation. Recommended compression location was zero-to-two vertebral segments below the scapulae. Twenty of 25 cases (80%) survived prone resuscitation, although few cases reported long term outcome (neurological status at hospital discharge). Seven cases described full neurological recovery. Conclusion This scoping review did not identify sufficient evidence to justify a systematic review or modified resuscitation guidelines. It remains reasonable to initiate resuscitation in the prone position if turning the patient supine would lead to delays or risk to providers or patients. Prone resuscitation quality can be judged using end-tidal CO 2 , and arterial pressure tracing, with patients turned supine if insufficient.