Best Myasthenia Gravis Doctors in Bangalore

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an uncommon autoimmune neuromuscular condition, where the body produces autoantibodies against specific proteins at the neuromuscular junction, a critical point for muscle control. As these autoantibodies obstruct communication between nerves and muscles, it results in muscle weakness and fatigue. The primary causes are the creation of these autoantibodies and the destruction of neuromuscular junction components.

In Bangalore, with the services of some of the best doctors for myasthenia gravis treatment and expert neurologists specialising in myasthenia gravis diseases. in Apollo Hospitals Bangalore, patients have access to excellent care and treatment options.

Types/Stages of Myasthenia Gravis

MG can be broadly classified into various types based on symptom severity:

• Ocular Myasthenia Gravis: Exclusive to eye muscles leading to drooping eyelids and double vision.

• Generalised Myasthenia Gravis: Affects multiple muscle groups including those involved in speech, eating, and movement.

• The Osserman Classification: Further categorises MG into five types based on symptom severity ranging from purely ocular symptoms to severe generalised symptoms and life-threatening myasthenic crises.

Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis

The symptoms of MG vary widely based on its type. Commonly observed signs include:

• Muscle Weakness: Gradual onset of weakness affecting the face, arms, and legs.

• Fatigue: Muscle fatigue worsens after repetitive actions.

• Ptosis: Drooping eyelids become noticeable.

• Diplopia: Patients often experience double vision.

• Respiratory Distress: Difficulty in breathing due to weakness in respiratory muscles.

Tests to Diagnose Myasthenia Gravis

To diagnose MG, the following tests are commonly recommended:

• Blood Test: To detect the presence of autoantibodies.

• Edrophonium Test: To evaluate immediate improvement in muscle strength after administration of Edrophonium.

• Electromyography (EMG): To assess electrical activity in muscles during contraction and at rest.

• Pulmonary Function Test: To assess respiratory muscle strength.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Myasthenia Gravis at Apollo Hospitals Bangalore

Apollo Hospitals Bangalore offer a wide range of treatment options for MG:

• Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Medicines such as pyridostigmine enhance muscle strength by increasing acetylcholine availability at neuromuscular junctions.

• Immunosuppressive Therapies: Medicines like steroids, and azathioprine suppress autoantibody production by the immune system.

• Thymectomy: Surgical removal of the thymus gland often helps reduce the production of autoantibodies, improving symptoms in many cases.

• Plasmapheresis: A process that filters autoantibodies from blood, often used to provide symptom relief during a myasthenic crisis.