A 33-year-old female presents with drooping of her eyelid that seem to occur while reading or watching television. This appears to get worse later in the day. She also reports that at times she sees "double." A few weeks ago, she was prescribed an antibiotic medication for a urinary tract infection. She does not recall the name of the antibiotic. On physical exam, bilateral ptosis, with the left affected more than the right is seen. Pupillary function intact. A glove is filled with ice, and subsequently applied to the patient's eyelid. After two minutes, the patient's ptosis has improved. Which of the following is most likely to yield rapid symptom improvement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The patient's symptoms of ptosis and diplopia that worsen with activity and improve with rest are classic for myasthenia gravis. The ice pack test, which improves ptosis, further supports this diagnosis. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, such as pyridostigmine, are the first-line treatment for symptomatic improvement in myasthenia gravis. Corticosteroids and plasma exchange are used for long-term management or severe cases, while thymectomy is a surgical option for thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis.