Mary Harney
Question:188 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of the Myasthenia Gravis Association at the lack of knowledge available about this condition, even among general practitioners.
Written Answers. - Myasthenia Gravis.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:192 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health his views on whether it is necessary to allocate extra resources to facilitate a more rapid diagnosis of the disease myasthenia gravis; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I have recently received representations on behalf of the Myasthenia Gravis Association. Myasthenia gravis is a relatively uncommon disease which affects the neuro-muscular system. Where a patient exhibits symptoms or signs of a neuro-muscular condition, a general practitioner would normally refer the patient to a medical consultant for confirmation of the condition and whether a diagnosis of myasthenia gravis can be confirmed. I am satisfied that appropriate resources are available for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.