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Myasthenia Gravis
DefinitionMyasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by variable weakness of voluntary muscles, which often improves with rest and worsens with activity. The condition is caused by an abnormal immune response.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
In myasthenia gravis, weakness occurs when the nerve impulse to initiate or sustain movement does not adequately reach the muscle cells. This is caused when immune cells target and attack the body's own cells (an autoimmune response). This immune response produces antibodies that attach to affected areas, preventing muscle cells from receiving chemical messages (neurotransmitters) from the nerve cell.
The cause of autoimmune disorders such as myasthenia gravis is unknown. In some cases, myasthenia gravis may be associated with tumors of the thymus (an organ of the immune system). Patients with myasthenia gavis have a higher risk of having other autoimmune disorders like thyrotoxicosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Myasthenia gravis affects about 3 of every 10,000 people and can affect people at any age. It is most common in young women and older men.
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• Definition
• Myasthenia Gravis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Myasthenia Gravis Symptoms & Signs
• Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosis & Tests
• Myasthenia Gravis Treatment
• Myasthenia Gravis Prognosis
• Myasthenia Gravis Complications
• Myasthenia Gravis Support Groups
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome
• Hyperthyroidism
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Tests & Exams
• Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody
• Electromyography
• Nerve Conduction Velocity
• Tensilon Test
Other Topics
• Antibody
• Breathing Difficulty
• Chronic
• Drooling
• Enzyme
• Eyelid Drooping
• Facial Paralysis
• Fatigue
• Heimlich Maneuver
• Hoarseness or Changing Voice
• Immune Response
• Intravenous
• Muscle Cramps
• Muscle Function Loss
• Myasthenia Gravis - Resources
• Speech Impairment (Adult)
• Stress and Anxiety
• Swallowing Difficulty
• Vision Problems
• Weakness
Review Date : 7/26/2002
Reviewed By : Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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