Myasthenia Gravis
How is the disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis of myasthenia gravis begins with a medical history and
physical exam. The healthcare provider may ask the person to perform repetitive
movements of a muscle. The provider looks for signs of muscle weakness with
use. A blood test known as antibody titer can often detect the
antibodies that attack the muscles A Tensilon
test can be done to diagnose myasthenia gravis. A medicine called
Tensilon is given to the person intravenously, or into a vein. If the person
has myasthenia gravis, the Tensilon will temporarily strengthen the person's
muscles.
Electromyography, or EMG, can be done to
measure the way the muscles respond to electrical stimulation. When myasthenia
is present, the muscles have an abnormal response to the
stimulation.
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