Myasthenia

Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis (pronunciation: /maɪ.əˈstiː.niə ˈɡrævɪs/) is a long-term neuromuscular disease that leads to varying degrees of skeletal muscle weakness. The most commonly affected muscles are those of the eyes, face, and swallowing. It can result in double vision, drooping eyelids, trouble talking, and trouble walking.

Etymology

The term "Myasthenia Gravis" comes from the Greek and Latin words meaning "grave muscular weakness". The most common form of the disease is termed "autoimmune myasthenia gravis", because it is caused by an immune response against the body's own muscles.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis may include fatigue, weakness in the arms and legs, double vision, difficulty in swallowing and speaking, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can vary in intensity throughout the day.

Causes

Myasthenia Gravis is caused by a breakdown in the normal communication between nerves and muscles. This is due to antibodies blocking or destroying nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the junction between the nerve and muscle. This prevents nerve impulses from triggering muscle contractions.

Treatment

Treatment for Myasthenia Gravis includes medication to improve nerve-to-muscle messages and suppress the immune system response. In severe cases, surgery to remove the thymus gland (thymectomy) may be recommended.

Related Terms

• Autoimmune disease
• Neuromuscular junction
• Thymectomy
• Acetylcholine

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Myasthenia
• Wikipedia's article - Myasthenia

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