Myasthenia Gravis

Our doctors in the Neuromuscular Program have decades of experience diagnosing and treating myasthenia gravis and other diseases that affect the nerves and muscles.

What Is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks an area called the neuromuscular junction, which is where the nerve endings and muscles meet. At the neuromuscular junction, nerve endings transmit impulses to the muscles to cause them to move. Interruption of this transmission leads to muscle weakness.

Learn more about the expertise offered by our Neuromuscular Program.

What Are the Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis?

Because myasthenia gravis symptoms often can be controlled or even reversed with prompt treatment, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis as quickly as possible. Our experts have years of experience accurately diagnosis this disease.

Learn more about myasthenia gravis symptoms.

How Is Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosed?

Our extensive expertise helps us rule out other possible causes and arrive at the diagnosis quickly. Your doctor may order lab work, imaging studies or an electromyography test.

Learn more about myasthenia gravis diagnosis.

How Is Myasthenia Gravis Treated?

There is no cure for myasthenia gravis. Your doctor may prescribe medications or other non-invasive treatment to manage your symptoms. Some people may require surgery to remove their thymus gland, called a thymectomy.

Learn more about myasthenia gravis treatment at Stanford.