Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026
10:40
Measuring Neuromuscular Junction Functionality
Published on: August 6, 2017
Henry R. Viets, MD, and the History of Myasthenia Gravis
1From the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and the Center for History Of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. feibel12@gmail.com.
Neurology
|November 21, 2020
Summary
Neurologist Henry R. Viets pioneered myasthenia gravis treatment using neostigmine. He established the first global clinic, significantly advancing care for this rare neuromuscular disorder.
Area of Science:
- Medical History
- Neurology
Background:
- Henry R. Viets, a neurologist and medical historian, trained at Harvard Medical School under Harvey Cushing.
- He conducted research with Sir Charles Sherrington and lived with the Osler family during a fellowship in Oxford.
Discussion:
- Viets learned of neostigmine's success in treating myasthenia gravis in 1935.
- He introduced neostigmine treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital, achieving significant patient success.
Key Insights:
- Viets established the world's first Myasthenia Gravis clinic, pioneering treatment for the condition.
- He evaluated numerous patients and published extensively on myasthenia gravis, dedicating over 30 years to its study.
Outlook:
- Viets also made significant contributions to medical history, publishing widely and holding leadership roles.
- His long tenure on the Editorial Board of the New England Journal of Medicine highlights his enduring influence.
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