[Effect of tensilon on the behavior of optokinetic nystagmus in myasthenia].

In 14 myasthenics tensilon test was performed together with electronystagmographic recording of optokinetic nystagmus. The mean amplitude of deflections and the mean frequency of nystagmus were calculated before and after intravenous administration of tensilon 10 mg. The results were compared with those obtained in a control group. The test was positive in 11 myasthenics: the amplitude and frequency of nystagmus beats increased and extinction at the end of the test was absent or diminished. In the control group the test was negative, with the exception of 3 cases in which a slight increase in amplitude and frequency was observed. The authors stress the advantages and disadvantages of tensilon test and state that it is diagnostically valuable in myasthenia and myasthenic syndromes in subjects sensitive to the drug.