Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a common neuromuscular disorder, though many patients lack sufficient understanding of it. How can one determine if they have this condition, and what diagnostic methods are available? Below, our experts outline several key clinical assessments for myasthenia gravis.
Diagnostic Methods for Myasthenia Gravis
- Muscle Endurance Tests
- Horizontal Arm Raise: Time taken to maintain a 90-degree lateral arm raise with both arms.
- Neck Flexion Test: Time spent holding a 45-degree neck flexion (lifting the head without a pillow) while lying supine.
- Leg Raise Test: Time maintaining a 45-degree leg lift (each leg separately) while supine.
- Normal Criteria: Each test (arm raise, neck flexion, leg raise) should last ≥120 seconds.
- Forced Eyelid Closure Test
- Observe for incomplete eyelid closure or loss of the “eyelash burial sign” (inability to fully bury eyelashes under the eyelids) due to muscle fatigue.
- Normal Criteria: Eyelashes should fully retract beneath the eyelids during forceful closure.
- Sustained Eye-Opening Test
- Measure the time until eyelid drooping (ptosis) occurs and its severity during sustained eye opening.
- Normal Criteria: Maximum eyelid aperture (distance between eyelids) should remain ≥10 mm for ≥60 seconds without ptosis.
- Repetitive Squat-Stand Test
- Count the maximum number of squats followed by standing upright without using hands for support.
- Normal Criteria: ≥10 repetitions.
The above outlines primary diagnostic methods for myasthenia gravis. For treatment, patients often ask: How is myasthenia gravis managed? Is traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) effective? While TCM, such as herbal decoctions, is sometimes explored, treatment decisions should be guided by clinical evidence and tailored to individual needs.
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