One treatment method for myasthenia gravis involves the removal of which organ?

Study for the ASU BIO201 Human Anatomy and Physiology I Exam. Prepare with comprehensive materials, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

In the treatment of myasthenia gravis, the removal of the thymus gland is a recognized method, particularly in patients who have a thymoma or an enlarged thymus. The thymus plays a critical role in immune function and is involved in the development of T-cells, which are essential for immune response. In myasthenia gravis, the immune system produces antibodies that mistakenly attack the communication point between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness. The thymus is thought to contribute to this autoimmune process, and its removal can lead to an improvement in symptoms for many patients. This procedure is sometimes accompanied by immunosuppressive therapy to enhance the treatment's effectiveness.

The other organs mentioned—thyroid, spleen, and liver—do not have a direct and significant role in the pathology of myasthenia gravis or are not typical targets for intervention regarding this specific condition. Thus, the thymus is the correct answer regarding surgical intervention in the treatment of myasthenia gravis.

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