Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-06
Myasthenia gravis is the universally accepted medical term for this chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder, though it has historically been referred to as Erb-Goldflam disease or asthenic bulbar paralysis. Common Synonyms and Historical Nomenclature While Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is the standard term used globally, you may encounter several alternative names in older medical literature or international texts. Historically, the condition was sometimes called Erb-Goldflam disease, named after Wilhelm Erb and Samuel Goldflam, who provided early clinical descriptions of the disorder in the late 19th century.
Myasthenia Gravis synonyms
Other names for Myasthenia Gravis: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Myasthenia gravis is the universally accepted medical term for this chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder, though it has historically been referred to as Erb-Goldflam disease or asthenic bulbar paralysis.
Common Synonyms and Historical Nomenclature
While Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is the standard term used globally, you may encounter several alternative names in older medical literature or international texts. Historically, the condition was sometimes called Erb-Goldflam disease, named after Wilhelm Erb and Samuel Goldflam, who provided early clinical descriptions of the disorder in the late 19th century. Other archaic terms include asthenic bulbar paralysis, reflecting the weakness often seen in the muscles controlled by the brainstem (bulbar muscles), and myasthenia gravis pseudoparalytica.
Official Classification Systems
The medical community uses standardized identifiers to ensure consistency across records and research. In the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10/11), the condition is categorized under disorders of the myoneural junction. In the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database, it is cataloged under entry #254200. The Orphanet database, which tracks rare diseases, lists the condition as ORPHA:587, confirming that Myasthenia Gravis is the preferred designation for clinical, research, and coding purposes.
Why Multiple Names Exist
The existence of multiple names for Myasthenia Gravis stems from the evolution of medical diagnostics. In the late 1800s, conditions were frequently named after the physicians who first described them (eponyms). As our understanding of the underlying autoimmune pathology—specifically the role of acetylcholine receptor antibodies—advanced, the medical community shifted toward descriptive names that reflect the disease mechanism rather than the clinician who identified it. Today, using the term Myasthenia Gravis ensures clear communication between patients, neurologists, and researchers worldwide.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), NIH GARD: Myasthenia Gravis Information Page.
- Orphanet: Rare Disease Database (ORPHA:587).
- Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM): #254200, Myasthenia Gravis.
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA).
