Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic, autoimmune disorder caused by a breakdown in the communication between nerve endings and muscles in the neuromuscular junction. At the junction, the nerve ending and muscle communicate via a neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine.
In MG, antibodies block or destroy receptors at the junction, affecting signal transmission. This results in muscle fatigue and weakness.
Ocular MG: Affects only the eye muscles, causing intermittent drooping eyelids and double vision. It may remain localised to the eye muscles, or progress to generalised MG.
Generalised MG: Involves muscles beyond the eyes, including those used for breathing, swallowing and limb movement.
Early-onset: Before age 50, more common in females, and often linked to an enlarged thymus
Late-onset: After age 50, more common in males
Thymoma-associated: Linked to thymic tumours (around 10-15% of cases)
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS): Inherited, non-autoimmune form present from birth.
Transient neonatal MG: Temporary weakness in newborns of mothers with MG, resolving after birth.
Seronegative MG: No detectable antibodies but similar symptoms; diagnosed clinically.
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