Semin Neurol 2004; 24(1): 31-39
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-829594
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnosis

Matthew N. Meriggioli1 , Donald B. Sanders2
  • 1Director, Section of Neuromuscular Disease, Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
  • 2Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
01 July 2004 (online)

The clinical history and neurological examination provide the most important data on which the diagnosis of autoimmune myasthenia gravis (MG) is based. MG produces symptomatic weakness that predominates in certain muscle groups and typically fluctuates in response to effort and rest. The diagnosis of MG therefore depends on the recognition of this distinctive pattern of fatigable weakness. Laboratory confirmation of the clinical diagnosis may be obtained using pharmacological, electrophysiological, and serological (immunological) tests. This article reviews the tests used to confirm the diagnosis of MG.

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Matthew N MeriggioliM.D. 

Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University

1725 W. Harrison Street, Suite 1106, Chicago, IL 60612

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