Myasthenia gravis in Spain: A survey of specialized neurologists to uncover unmet needs

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INTRODUCTION: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular autoimmune disease that requires prompt diagnosis and management by neurologists. The challenges of MG management are associated with the diagnostic process and the selection of an effective form of therapy enabling long-term remission of the disease. The objective of this study was to assess the state of MG in Spain to identify unaddressed needs in the clinical progression, diagnosis, and treatment approaches. METHODS: A survey was distributed via email between 19 July and 25 October 2022 to neurologists belonging to the Spanish Society of Neurology. A comprehensive descriptive analysis was conducted on all collected data. RESULTS: In total, 69 completed surveys, representing 64 Spanish hospitals, were analyzed and included in the results. The study identified that economic difficulties, such as departmental budgets, have led to a lack of access to antibody testing during diagnosis. Furthermore, corticosteroids were found to achieve the best clinical response, despite also being associated with a higher frequency of adverse effects. The results show that 34% of patients with MG present active symptoms. Eighteen percent have symptoms that limit their daily activities. Additionally, 29% of patients have requested an unscheduled follow-up visit within the last year. CONCLUSIONS: Several areas present unmet needs in terms of improving access to diagnostic assays, residual disease burden in treated patients, and the management and diagnosis of MG.

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