Diseases and Disorders

The Outpatient Neuromuscular Clinics at the MGH provide expert diagnostic services and access to innovative research studies and trials. Common diseases and disorders that are diagnosed and treated at the clinics include:

Peripheral Neuropathies – These diseases include neurological disorders that affect the sensory, motor and/or autonomic nerves throughout the body. Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, pain and weakness in the arms and legs. There are many causes of neuropathy and various treatments are available.

Myopathies – These neurological disorders primarily affect muscle, and may be inflammatory, inherited, toxic, infectious or drug-induced in origin. Symptoms can include weakness, muscle pain, and cramping or exercise intolerance. Muscle disease can affect individuals of all ages. Accurate diagnosis is essential, as some myopathies are treatable.

Neuromuscular Transmission Disorders (including myasthenia gravis) – These disorders can produce exercise-induced fatigability and weakness. Affected individuals may suffer from muscle weakness, double vision and difficulty with speaking, swallowing and breathing. Although the symptoms can be serious, numerous treatments exist.

Leukodystrophy - The Leukodystrophy Clinic may refer patients to the Neuromuscular Diagnostic Center for genetic testing.