Management of myasthenia gravis

Semin Neurol. 2004 Mar;24(1):41-8. doi: 10.1055/s-2004-829586.

Abstract

Although once a severe and often fatal illness, myasthenia gravis can now be well managed with several relatively safe and effective therapies. Management involves a graded approach, beginning with cholinesterase inhibitors for mild symptoms and advancing to immunomodulating medications for more severe weakness. There are several immunomodulating agents from which to choose; selection is based largely on time to clinical effect and adverse effects. This review will discuss the selection and use of therapies for patients with myasthenia gravis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / therapy*
  • Neuromuscular Junction / drug effects*
  • Neuromuscular Junction / immunology
  • Neuromuscular Junction / physiopathology
  • Plasmapheresis
  • Thymectomy

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Immunosuppressive Agents