Myasthenia Gravis

Overview

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles, which are responsible for breathing and moving parts of the body. At Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we offer advanced diagnostics, treatment options, and in-patient neurological rehabilitation to help manage and improve quality of life for people living with MG.

Causes of Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis occurs when the immune system produces antibodies that block or destroy acetylcholine receptors at the junction between nerve and muscle, preventing muscle contraction. The exact trigger is unknown, but it is often associated with:

• Autoimmune conditions
• Thymus gland abnormalities (e.g. thymoma)
• Genetic predisposition

Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis

Symptoms typically fluctuate throughout the day and may worsen with activity:

• Muscle weakness that improves with rest
• Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Difficulty speaking (dysarthria)
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Weakness in the arms, legs, or neck
• Breathing difficulties in severe cases (myasthenic crisis)

Diagnosis

A comprehensive diagnostic process includes:

• Neurological examination to assess muscle strength and reflexes
• Antibody blood tests (e.g. AChR or MuSK antibodies)
• Electromyography (EMG) to detect impaired nerve-to-muscle communication
• Imaging (CT or MRI) of the chest to check for thymus abnormalities
• Tensilon (edrophonium) test in some cases

Treatment Options

Treatment aims to reduce symptoms and control the immune response:

• Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. pyridostigmine) to improve communication between nerves and muscles
• Immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids or other agents
• Plasmapheresis or IVIG for rapid symptom relief during a crisis
• Thymectomy (surgical removal of the thymus) when a tumour is present
• In-patient Neurorehabilitation at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, including tailored physiotherapy, speech and swallowing therapy, and fatigue management strategies

Our Resident Neurologist

Dr Weatherall is very welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.

Dr Mark Weatherall

Consultant Neurologist

Field