The importance of thymectomy in Myasthenia Gravis

Aim:The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ essential for lymphocyte maturation and is linked to autoimmune diseases due to its immunological role. In Myasthenia Gravis (MG), an autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction, thymectomy is a treatment option. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of thymectomy on disease progression in MG patients. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 42 patients who underwent thymectomy for MG between January 2010 and December 2023 at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Department of Thoracic Surgery. Preoperative and postoperative clinical status was assessed using the Osserman classification and MGFA (Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America) scores. Pyridostigmine and corticosteroid doses were compared. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 28.0. Results: The study included 69% female and 31% male patients, with a mean age of 41. Postoperative Osserman and MGFA scores showed a significant reduction compared to preoperative values (p<0.001). Pyridostigmine and corticosteroid dosages also significantly decreased after surgery (p=0.001 and p=0.023, respectively). AChR antibody positivity did not significantly affect treatment response (p>0.05). Conclusion:Thymectomy contributes to clinical improvement and reduced medication needs in MG patients, enhancing disease control. With appropriate patient selection, thymectomy remains an effective and reliable surgical treatment for MG and supports improved quality of life when integrated with multidisciplinary care. Keywords: Myasthenia Gravis, Thymectomy, Osserman, MGFA, Pyridostigmine, Corticosteroid