Which diagnostic test is commonly used for myasthenia gravis and is safe during pregnancy?

The electromyography (EMG) test is commonly used for diagnosing myasthenia gravis and is considered safe during pregnancy. EMG assesses the electrical activity of muscles and the nerves that control them. It helps in detecting abnormalities in the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscles, which is crucial in diagnosing myasthenia gravis, a condition characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of voluntary muscles due to an autoimmune attack on acetylcholine receptors.

During pregnancy, EMG is a non-invasive procedure that poses minimal risk to both the mother and the developing fetus, making it a preferred choice for diagnostic evaluation in this population. Other diagnostic options, such as MRI and CT scans, involve exposure to radiation, which could pose risks during pregnancy and are often avoided unless absolutely necessary. Similarly, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is an invasive procedure that carries risks of complications and infection. Therefore, EMG stands out as the optimal, safe diagnostic test for myasthenia gravis during pregnancy.