Myasthenia Gravis (8)

Myasthenia Gravis - Overview

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction, the site where nerve impulses are transmitted to muscles. It causes weakness and fatigue in voluntary muscles, which can worsen with activity and improve with rest. MG can affect people of any age, but it is more common in women under 40 and men over 60. The condition is diagnosed through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies. Treatment includes medication, such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and immunosuppressants, and sometimes plasma exchange. With proper management, many people with MG can lead normal, active lives.

Symptoms Of Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) results in muscle weakness and fatigue. The symptoms of MG vary widely, but typically include:

• Weakness in the eye muscles, such as drooping eyelids or double vision
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Weakness in the arms, hands, fingers, legs, or neck
• Fatigue that worsens with activity

Symptoms may worsen with prolonged use of affected muscles and improve with rest.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis involves a combination of medical history, and a physical examination. You doctor may mandate blood tests that include the anti–acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody (Ab) test to detect specific antibodies, neurophysiological tests, and imaging studies to assess the involvement of thymus gland.

How To Treat Myasthenia Gravis

There are several myasthenia gravis medications available to manage the symptoms of the condition. The medicines work by either boosting the levels of neurotransmitters that stimulate muscle contractions or by blocking the activity of immune cells that attack healthy muscle cells. In some cases, myasthenia gravis injections like rituximab and eculizumab may provide immediate relief from severe muscle pain. Also, myasthenia gravis treatment drugs can include cholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids, and Immunosuppressants. It is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the most appropriate myasthenia gravis medicines for your specific case.

References:

• https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/myasthenia-gravis#:~:text=What%20is%20myasthenia%20gravis%3F,%2C%20and%20allow%20for%20breathing).
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/myasthenia-gravis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352036
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/myasthenia-gravis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352040
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/myasthenia-gravis