Analyzes of Life World of a Young Girl With Myasthenia Gravis: Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular disorder and auto-immune disease that is associated with symptoms of fluctuating muscle fatigue and dysfunction of the neuromuscular junction system. This disease greatly affects various aspects of the patient's life and impacts the person's perception of the quality of life. The aim of this study was to explain and analyze life experiences with myasthenia gravis disease in a young girl. Methods & Materials: This report is a qualitative case with interpretive phenomenological approach that examines the life experiences of a young girl with myasthenia gravis in 2019. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Van Manen's phenomenological approach. Ethical Considerations: This study was registered in the Research Ethics Committee of Khatam University (Code: 3299/100/P/98). Results: Thematic analysis indicated that myasthenia gravis disease affects all aspects of person's life world. These four aspects include living and feelings with time, body, space, and others. Eventually, three interrelated themes emerged from the patient's perception of the world around her, including physical weakness, future ambiguity, and frustration. Conclusion: The present study shows a clear image and understanding of the problems of living with MG in a young girl. The phenomenological world of mixed by physical weakness, ambiguity in the future, and frustration that indicating the suffering and distress that the patient experiences following the illness. The results of this study contribute to the awareness of health and rehabilitation specialists in the field of work and research in myasthenia gravis as a neurological disease.