Med. praxi. 2015;12(3):121-125

Myasthenia gravis

MUDr.Jiří Piťha

Centrum myasthenia gravis, Neurologická klinika 1. LF UK a VFN, centrum klinických neurověd,

Neurologické odděleni KZ a.s. &ndash, Nemocnice Teplice o. z., Teplice

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disease that results in the destruction of functional acetylcholine receptors on the postsynaptic

membrane of the neuromuscular junction. Thus, neuromuscular transmission is affected negatively. It is a relatively rare disease with

a prevalence of 200/100,000. It is manifested by fluctuating muscle weakness and fatigability. Particularly affected are the extraocular,

oropharyngeal, nuchal, girdle, and respiratory muscles. The diagnosis is based on clinical examination, demonstration of pathological

antibodies, and electrophysiological testing. Cholinesterase inhibitors are the first-choice therapy; treatment with corticosteroids and

immunosuppressants is often used. Thymectomy is reserved for only a small portion of patients. Myasthenia gravis is a serious condition;

in most cases, however, pharmacologically supported clinical remission can be achieved, with a relatively good quality of life.

Keywords: myasthenia gravis, neuromuscular transmission, diagnosis, treatment, risk medications

Published: June 24, 2015  Show citation