Myasthenia gravis

Description

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease which is characterized by progressive tiredness and muscle weakness. Muscle strength at the beginning of the day or activity may be normal and then becoming progressively weaker as the certain activity continues. Antibodies block, change or destroy acetylcholine receptors, neurotransmitter that has a very important role in the muscle contractions. It is not known what triggers this reaction and under which conditions. The disease is more frequent in younger women. Sometimes is associated with the tumor of thymus (thymoma).

Symptoms

Muscle weakness, muscle weakness that gets worse as certain activity continues and coming back after a rest, double vision, slurred speech, swallowing problems.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. Following tests are done to confirm diagnosis: EMG, acetylcholine receptors antibodies and/or Tensilion test. CT scan of chest or MRI-magnetic resonance imaging may be done to confirm if the tumor of thymus is present.

Tests

CT scan and MRI-magnetic resonance imaging

Additional analyses

EMG, acetylcholine receptors antibodies and/or Tensilion test

Specialists

Neurology

Therapy

Treatment aims at decreasing the weakness. Medicines for increase of acetylcholine in muscle receptors are prescribed and medicines for immune system may also be prescribed. Symptoms may vary. Severe symptoms may be treated with plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin.