Does everyone with myasthenia gravis need repetitive nerve stimulation testing?
Not everyone with myasthenia gravis requires repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) testing. It's one of several diagnostic tools doctors use, but the specific tests you need depend on your symptoms and other test results.
RNS is commonly used Show Full Answer
Does everyone with myasthenia gravis need repetitive nerve stimulation testing?
Not everyone with myasthenia gravis requires repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) testing. It's one of several diagnostic tools doctors use, but the specific tests you need depend on your symptoms and other test results.
RNS is commonly used after physical exams and antibody testing point toward myasthenia gravis. It measures how well your nerves communicate with your muscles by delivering repeated electrical shocks. In people with MG, muscles quickly become tired after these repeated shocks.
However, RNS has about 75 to 80 percent accuracy, so it's not always definitive. Some people may need alternative tests like single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG), which is more accurate but less commonly used.
Your neurologist will determine which tests are most appropriate based on:
- Your specific symptoms
- Results from antibody blood tests
- Physical exam findings
- Whether other tests have already confirmed the diagnosis
If you've already been diagnosed through other means, like antibody testing or clinical response to medication, you may not need RNS at all.
March 28
My antibody test was so high I didn’t require any further testing And the fact I had every symptom except breathing issues.,
March 29
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