During a Tensilon test, a positive result is best described as which of the following?

• A. Prolonged symptomatic improvement
• B. Rapid but brief symptomatic improvement
• C. Brief exaggerated symptoms leading to diagnosis
• D. Symptom relief only for ptosis

Answer: (B)

A Tensilon test looks for a quick boost in neuromuscular transmission when acetylcholine breakdown is inhibited. Edrophonium is short-acting, so if myasthenia gravis is present you’ll see a rapid improvement in muscle strength within seconds to a minute, and that improvement lasts only a few minutes before fading. This brief, fast-acting improvement best describes a positive result. The improvement is not prolonged because the drug wears off quickly, and while ptosis can improve, the relief is not limited to eyelid symptoms alone.