Myasthenia gravis (pronounced `my˖ĕs˖`thēēn˖ē˖ă `grăv˖ĭs), also known simply as MG, is a rare neuromuscular disorder. When the first case of MG was documented in 1672 by Thomas Willis, an Oxford physician, not much was known or understood about it. Today, we know there are multiple causes for MG as well as treatment options. The most common form of MG is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that is characterized by fluctuating weakness of the voluntary muscle groups.
While there is no known cure for myasthenia gravis (MG), there are many effective treatments. Spontaneous improvement and even remission, although uncommon, may occur without any specific therapy. However, as every case of MG is unique, you and your doctor will decide on a treatment plan for your specific needs.
With treatment, you may expect to see modest to significant improvement in your strength, helping you lead a full life. New treatments continue to give hope to people with MG, their family and their caregivers. Information on available treatments is below.
- Anti-acetylcholinesterase agents – Mestinon® (pyridiostigmine bromide)– allows acetylcholine to remain at the neuromuscular junction for a longer period, which in turn allows activation of more receptor sites, resulting in increased conductivity and muscle engagement. Mestinon® comes in two forms, fast-acting 60 mg tablets and long-lasting slow-release 180 mg capsules known as Timespan®, which delivers pyridiostigmine bromide over a 12-hour period.
- Corticosteroids and immunosuppressant agents – Corticosteroids, such as Prednisone or an immunosuppressant agent such as Imuran®, Cellcept®, or Cyclosporin® , may be prescribed by your doctor as a stand-alone medication or in combination. These medications suppress your body’s production of antibodies that may be blocking or binding onto your body’s acetylcholine receptors. This blocking or binding of the acetylcholine receptors causes weakness.
- Monoclonal antibodies – Monoclonal antibodies such as Soliris®, generic name Eculizumab or Rituximab, are the newest classification of infusible drugs to be FDA-approved for MG treatment. These drugs work as complement inhibitors, to reduce immune system attacks that may contribute to MG symptoms. You and your doctor will decide if this approach is best for you.
- Cautionary Drugs – Certain medications may cause worsening of MG symptoms. Remember to tell your doctors and dentists about your MG diagnosis and the medications you are currently taking. It is important to check with your doctor before starting any new medication, including over the counter medications or preparations.
Other Treatment Strategies
- Intravenous immune globulins (IVIg) – Your doctor may prescribe IVIG as part of your treatment regimen. During IVIG, a line is placed into a vein to receive delivery of immune globulins (IgG). A typical IVIG infusion may take from 4- 8 hours and is typically in a hospital setting. This influx of IgG is thought to override your own antibody production (which may be causing your weakness) while providing you protection from possible infections. Results are often temporary, so repeated treatments are required.
- IgG Sub-cue Hizentra– A new, less invasive method of delivering immune globulins (IgG) is being reviewed for MG use. This method is known as IgG sub-cue, which means subcutaneous or “under the skin”. In this method of IgG delivery, a series of 4-6 short needles are placed into the subcutaneous layer of skin across your abdomen. These needles are connected in a spider web fashion to the pump. A typical sub-cue infusion may only take from 1-3 hours and can be done at home.
- Therapeutic Plasma Exchange, or Plasmapheresis – Also known as Plasma exchange or PLEX. This is a filtration procedure whereby abnormal antibodies are removed from blood plasma. This procedure requires two intravenous (IV) lines or a port placed before undergoing PLEX. Your doctor may decide you need this treatment to quickly improve strength prior to surgery. As your body continually produces antibodies, repeated PLEX treatments may be required.
- Thymectomy – This is the surgical removal of the thymus gland. The thymus gland is located in the middle of your upper chest and lies over your heart. This gland plays a role in the production of antibodies. While it is most active in early childhood, the thymus gland usually shrinks over time and by early adulthood is believed to no longer function. Sometimes, the thymus gland remains large and continues to be active in antibody production. Some MG patients may develop a tumor in the thymus gland know as a thymoma. Your doctor may suggest a thymectomy for you. Effectiveness of this surgical procedure varies with each patient. Weakness may be reduced, and sometimes