Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Clinic – Now Open
Austin Neuromuscular Center is proud to offer a dedicated Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Clinic, now open and accepting patients. This specialized program provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for individuals living with MG, combining expert clinical evaluation, advanced diagnostics, and access to cutting-edge therapies and research.
Our Myasthenia Gravis Clinic is a dedicated center within our Neuromuscular Program, providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for individuals living with Myasthenia Gravis. We offer personalized treatment plans using the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based therapies.
Our expert team includes:
- Dr. Yessar Hussain, board-certified neuromuscular neurologist, alongside nurse practitioners with specialized training in neuromuscular disorders
- Pulmonologists, focused on respiratory evaluation, symptom management, and equipment needs
- Cardiothoracic surgeons, available for evaluation and management of thymoma
- Clinical research specialists, providing access to active in-house MG clinical trials and emerging therapies
We are committed to patient-centered, collaborative care aimed at optimizing quality of life and symptom control. New patient appointments and referrals are currently being accepted.
What is Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness in the voluntary muscles of the body. It occurs when the body’s immune system produces antibodies that interfere with communication between nerves and muscles at the neuromuscular junction.
Types of Myasthenia Gravis
- Generalized MG: Affects multiple muscle groups including the face, arms, legs, and breathing muscles.
- Ocular MG: Limited to the muscles controlling eye movement and eyelids.
- Seronegative MG: Symptoms are present despite negative antibody tests.
- MuSK-Positive MG: A subtype with different antibody involvement and treatment responses.
- Thymoma-Associated MG: Occurs in patients with tumors of the thymus gland.
- Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes: Rare, inherited disorders present from birth, caused by genetic defects at the neuromuscular junction—not autoimmune.
How is MG Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:
- Clinical exam by a neuromuscular specialist
- Antibody blood testing (AChR, MuSK, LRP4, etc.)
- Electrodiagnostic testing (repetitive nerve stimulation or single-fiber EMG)
- Chest imaging (CT or MRI) to assess for thymoma
- Pulmonary function tests to assess breathing muscles
How is MG Treated?
Our clinic offers a full spectrum of treatment options, tailored to each patient’s disease type and severity:
- Symptomatic medications: such as pyridostigmine (Mestinon)
- Immunosuppressive therapies: including steroids, azathioprine, mycophenolate, methotrexate, or cyclosporine
- Targeted biologics: such as eculizumab (Soliris), ravulizumab (Ultomiris), and efgartigimod (Vyvgart)
- IVIG or plasmapheresis (PLEX) for acute worsening
- Thymectomy when indicated
Clinical Research Opportunities
Our MG Clinic is actively involved in ongoing clinical research, offering patients access to innovative and emerging therapies not yet widely available outside of research settings. Through these studies, we contribute to advancing understanding and treatment of Myasthenia Gravis while providing patients with opportunities to explore the latest therapeutic options.
To learn more, visit our Clinical Research page for current studies and participation opportunities.
Prognosis and Long-Term Care
With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most people with MG can manage their symptoms effectively and enjoy a good quality of life. Some may achieve remission, while others require lifelong treatment and monitoring. Our clinic provides ongoing care, education, and support to help patients live full, active lives. Regular follow-up visits allow us to adjust therapies as needed and watch for changes over time.