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Myasthenia Gravis
Medical Questions » Myasthenia Gravis
| Name: Myasthenia Gravis |
| Also known as: |
| A condition characterized by varying weakness of the muscles that control the eyelids, the movement of the eyes and swallowing. |
Causes of Myasthenia Gravis
Blocking of signals from the nerves that supply affected muscles, for which there may be an immunological cause when antibodies that normally fight off infection actually attack nerve tissue. May occur at any age, but is most common in young women and may be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus (see separate entry), thymus and thyroid disease. |
Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis
Drooping eyelids (ptosis), double vision and difficulty in swallowing. In severe cases the muscles used in breathing and walking are also affected. Muscle weakness varies in severity during the day and may disappear entirely for days or weeks before recurring. Over a period of months or years, the attacks become more severe. |
Tests for Myasthenia Gravis
Diagnosis confirmed by the patients reaction to an anticholinergic drug which immediately reverses all the muscle weakness. |
Treatment for Myasthenia Gravis
Surgically removing the thymus gland which is the source of most of the antibodies in the blood, and using anticholinergic drugs on a regular basis to control the muscle weakness. Steroids can be used in patients who respond poorly to other treatments.
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Complications of Myasthenia Gravis of its treatment
Unless adequate treatment is obtained, death eventually results from breathing difficulties. |
Likely Outcome of Myasthenia Gravis
No cure and patients require treatment for the rest of their lives, but some have lengthy periods when the disease is inactive, during which they may be able to cease their medication. |
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