The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Myasthenia Gravis

Symptoms and treatment of myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease that causes muscles not to be sufficiently stimulated due to production of antibodies targeting acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction by the immune system. It is characterized by fatigue that worsens with repeated muscle use.

Involvement of eye muscles is the most common initial finding: drooping of one or both eyelids (ptosis) and double vision. As the disease progresses, facial, swallowing, speech, and respiratory muscles can also be affected.

Thymus gland abnormalities (thymoma or thymic hyperplasia) are an important cause of myasthenia gravis. Thymectomy can provide long-term improvement in some patients. With modern treatments, the vast majority of patients can lead a normal or near-normal life.

Symptoms

Eyelid drooping (ptosis) — worsens throughout the day
Double vision (diplopia)
Difficulty chewing and swallowing
Speech impairment (nasal-sounding speech)
Weakness in the arms and legs increasing with repeated use
Respiratory difficulty (myasthenic crisis — emergency)

Risk Factors

History of autoimmune disease (thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis)
Thymoma (thymus gland tumor)
Female sex and young adult age group
In men, more common in older age
Family history (rare)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When eyelid drooping and double vision start
  • If swallowing and breathing difficulty develops (emergency — myasthenic crisis)
  • If there is muscle fatigue increasing with repeated physical activity
  • If symptoms worsen after medication change in existing disease

Treatment Methods

01
Cholinesterase inhibitors (pyridostigmine — symptomatic treatment)
02
Immunosuppressive therapy (corticosteroid, azathioprine, mycophenolate)
03
Thymectomy (in patients with thymic pathology)
04
Plasmapheresis and IVIG (in severe attacks or crisis)
05
New biological therapies (eculizumab, efgartigimod)
06
Avoidance of triggering drugs and patient education

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Nöroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Myasthenia Gravis

Nöroloji

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction characterized by fluctuating, fatigable muscle weakness most commonly affecting ocular, bulbar and proximal limb muscles; treated with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, immunosuppression, thymectomy and biologic agents with overall good prognosis.

Headache and Migraine

Nöroloji

What you need to know about headache types, migraine attacks, and triggering factors.

Low Back Pain

Nöroloji

Learn about the most common causes of low back pain, risk factors, and appropriate treatment approaches.

Neck Pain and Cervical Disc Herniation

Nöroloji

Learn about the symptoms and treatment options for cervical disc herniation and problems in the neck region.

Epilepsy

Nöroloji

Accurate information about epilepsy, types of seizures, and recommendations for patients and families.

Parkinson Disease

Nöroloji

Parkinson disease is caused by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and alpha-synuclein accumulation; well-timed therapy substantially improves function and quality of life.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Nöroloji

Information about early signs, diagnosis, and the care process for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Nöroloji

What is multiple sclerosis, who is at risk, and which treatments are applied?

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.