Thymectomy
Another treatment for
myasthenia gravis is thymectomy. Thymectomy is the surgical removal of the thymus gland, which is usually abnormal in myasthenia gravis patients. This surgery reduces
myasthenia gravis symptoms in more than 70 percent of patients without thymoma and may cure patients by re-balancing the immune system.
Plasmapheresis
Other myasthenia gravis treatment options include plasmapheresis, which is a procedure in which blood is separated into cells and plasma (liquid). The plasma is removed and replaced with fresh frozen plasma, a blood product called albumin, and/or a plasma substitute. The procedure is often referred to as plasma exchange. Plasmapheresis may be used to help individuals during especially difficult periods of weakness.
High-Dose Intravenous Immune Globulin
In some
autoimmune diseases, including myasthenia gravis, one particular type of antibody is produced in large numbers and is attacking the patient's own healthy tissue. In these cases, high-dose immune globulin can be given to suppress the immune system. High-dose intravenous immune globulin may be used to help individuals during especially difficult periods of weakness.
Summary of Treatment for Myasthenia Gravis
A neurologist will determine which treatment is best for each individual depending on:
- The severity of the weakness
- Which muscles are affected
- The individual's age
- Other associated medical problems.
With treatment, the
myasthenia gravis prognosis for most patients is good, because treatment can significant improve their muscle weakness. Most patients, with proper treatment, can expect to lead normal or nearly normal lives.
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