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Semin Neurol 2004; 24(1): 41-48
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-829586
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Management of Myasthenia Gravis

David S. Saperstein1 , Richard J. Barohn2
  • 1Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
  • 2Professor and Chairman, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
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Publication History

Publication Date:
01 July 2004 (online)

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Although once a severe and often fatal illness, myasthenia gravis can now be well managed with several relatively safe and effective therapies. Management involves a graded approach, beginning with cholinesterase inhibitors for mild symptoms and advancing to immunomodulating medications for more severe weakness. There are several immunomodulating agents from which to choose; selection is based largely on time to clinical effect and adverse effects. This review will discuss the selection and use of therapies for patients with myasthenia gravis.

KEYWORDS

Myasthenia gravis - immunosuppressant - IVIg - plasmapheresis - thymectomy

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David S SapersteinM.D. 

Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center

3901 Rainbow Blvd., Mail-stop 2012

Kansas City, KS 66160