Definition of Tensilon test:

The Tensilon test is a method to help diagnose myasthenia gravis.

How the test is performed:

A drug called Tensilon (also called edrophonium) or a dummy medicine (inactive placebo) is given during this test. The health care provider gives the medicine through one of your veins (intravenously, through an IV). You may also be given a medication called atropine before receiving Tensilon so that you do not know you are getting the drug.

You will be asked to perform some muscle movements over and over again, such as crossing and uncrossing your legs or getting up from a sitting position in a chair. The health care provider will check whether the Tensilon improves your muscle strength. If you have weakness of the eye or face muscles, the effect of the Tensilon on this will also be monitored.

The test may be repeated and you may have other Tensilon tests to help tell the difference between myasthenia gravis and other conditions.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is usually necessary. However, you should follow any dietary restrictions or other directions prescribed by your health care provider.

How the test will feel:

You will feel a sharp prick as the IV needle is inserted. The drug may cause a feeling of a churning of the stomach or a slight feeling of increased heart rate, especially if Atropine is not given first.

Why the test is performed:

The test helps:

• Diagnose myasthenia gravis
• Tell the difference between myasthenia gravis and other similar brain and nervous system conditions
• Monitor treatment with oral anticholinesterase drugs

The test may also be done for conditions such as Lambert-Eaton syndrome.