Myasthenia Gravis (MG)
Myasthenia Gravis Care at UVM Health
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular system. MG blocks communication between your nerves and the muscles under your voluntary control, causing them to become tired and weak.
The compassionate myasthenia gravis experts at University of Vermont Health understand how this disease can impact your life. Your providers are your partners in care. We take the time to get to know you and work with you to help you understand your options and make informed decisions. We’re by your side throughout your journey with compassion and support.
Why Choose UVM Health?
As one of the region's leading providers of myasthenia gravis care, we provide:
- Advanced skill: Our neuromuscular doctors are triple-board-certified, reflecting fellowship training in neurology, neuromuscular medicine and electrodiagnostic medicine. Our MG doctors are members of the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America's Partners in MG Care program, signifying the highest standards care.
- Leading-edge diagnostic capabilities and treatments: We offer innovative tests that can provide critical information for diagnosing your condition. Our MG experts specialize in both traditional and groundbreaking neuromuscular disorder therapies that can help you feel better.
- Team approach to care: Neuromuscular disease experts with specialization in many fields work together to develop and deliver individualized care plans that are tailored to your symptoms and needs. Our multidisciplinary team includes neurologists, ophthalmologists, surgeons and pharmacists.
- Academic focus: Our physician-leaders are active researchers, many of whom are training the next generation of experts. You can be confident your cared for by clinicians with access to the latest advancements in myasthenia gravis treatment.
Myasthenia Gravis Symptoms
When you have MG, your immune system mistakenly blocks movement signals sent from nerves to the muscles under your voluntary control. Your muscles grow weak as a result.
Symptoms of MG depend on the affected muscles and may include:
- Eyes and eyelids: Causing droopy eyelids or double vision
- Face: Making smiling difficult
- Mouth: Causing problems with speaking, chewing and swallowing
- Legs and ankles: Making it difficult to walk
- Arms and hands: Decreasing your ability to pick up or hold things
- Neck: Making it hard to hold your head up
- Upper chest: Causing shortness of breath or myasthenic crisis (a sudden and severe complication requiring a ventilator to breathe)
Diagnosing Myasthenia Gravis
Diagnosing myasthenia gravis can be difficult. MG symptoms are similar to those of several other conditions, and symptoms may come and go. It's important to seek guidance from neuromuscular disorder specialists with expertise in this condition for an accurate diagnosis.
Your neurologist will complete a thorough physical examination and ask about your symptoms. They will also ask about your medical history and your family's medical history. Your doctor may request that you undergo specific tests, including:
Certain substances in your blood can help diagnose myasthenia gravis or rule out other conditions.
An EMG evaluates how well your muscles and nerves work. Your provider inserts a tiny needle into your muscle to conduct an electric current. As you contract your muscle, a machine records its electrical activity. At UVM Health, we offer single-fiber EMG, the most sensitive test available.
A nerve conduction study (nerve conduction velocity) evaluates how electrical signals travel through your nerves. We place two electrode patches on your skin over a specific nerve. One electrode sends a mild electrical impulse, and the other records how your nerve responds.
Advanced imaging allows us to take photos and videos inside your body. We use the latest imaging technologies, including:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: X-rays and advanced computers create 3D pictures of parts of your body.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Magnets and a specialized computer work together to provide clear, detailed images of your organs.
A neurological exam assesses how well your brain communicates with your body. Your doctor checks your muscle function, reflexes, speech and senses.
Myasthenia Gravis Treatment
MG is a lifelong condition with no cure. Current treatments can help control your symptoms and increase your muscle function. Early diagnosis and treatment provide the best opportunity for managing future symptoms.
Our experts work with you to create your individualized treatment plan using the latest available therapies, including:
Immunomodulators for neuromuscular disorders are drugs that help prevent your immune system from attacking healthy cells.
You receive intravenous (IV) infusions of antibodies that support your immune system and reduce inflammation.
Certain medications can improve communication between your nerves and muscles. Others can help decrease inflammation and antibody production.
Plasma exchange removes your plasma (blood's liquid part that can contain abnormal antibodies) and replaces it with healthy plasma or a plasma substitute.
Surgically removing your thymus gland (in the upper chest behind the breastbone) may alter your immune system and improve your symptoms.
Patient Resources
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America: Patient education, advocacy and resources about myasthenia gravis.
Awards & Certifications
American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (ABPN)
UVM Health Network neuromuscular faculty physicians hold national leadership positions and board certifications in addition to board certification in neurology.
American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine (ABEM)
The ABEM has board certified all UVM Health Network neuromuscular faculty physicians.
Locations Near You
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89 South Williams Street
Burlington, VT 05401-3405
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, East Pavilion, Level 5
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, East Pavilion, Level 4
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
1 South Prospect Street
Arnold, Level 2
Burlington, VT 05401-5505
130 Fisher Road
MOB-A Suite 1-6
Berlin, VT 05602-9000
