News

Horizon Acquires Viela, Will Develop Inebilizumab for MG Symptoms

In a $3.05 billion deal, Horizon Therapeutics will acquire Viela Bio, the developer of inebilizumab, a potential treatment for autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis (MG), the two companies announced. Horizon plans to advance inebilizumab, already approved for treating another rare autoimmune disease, as a therapy for decreasing disease activity…

High AChR Autoantibodies Linked to MG Risk After Thymectomy

High levels of autoantibodies against acetylcholine receptors (AChR) in the blood of people with thymoma — a tumor of the thymus — can help to identify patients at risk of developing myasthenia gravis (MG) after tumor surgery, a study suggests. Larger tumors, and partial tumor resection might also increase this risk.

NORD’s Caregiver Respite Program Continues Through Pandemic

Caring for a loved one with a rare disease, especially during these uncertain times, demands significant time, attention, patience, and dedication. To help meet that need, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)’s Rare Caregiver Respite Program may be a helpful resource. The program seeks to give a well-deserved…

Low Frequency of Certain Immune Cells May Help Identify MG

Lower frequency of a specific subset of immune cells in the bloodstream may help identify myasthenia gravis (MG) in cases difficult to diagnose, specifically those testing negative for MG autoantibodies, a study suggests. Published in the journal Muscle & Nerve, the study, “Reduced plasmablast frequency is associated with…