Myasthenia Gravis Flashcards
where does MG act?
at the NMJ
MG is characterized by…
FLUCTUATING weakness and fatigability of skeletal muscles
what is the hallmark of MG
muscle weakness that increases during activity and improves with rest
What is the pathogenesis of MG
autoantibodies impact the NMJ POSTsynaptic ACh receptors
what is lamber-eaton myasthenic syndrome
a related pathology to MG but it is caused by autoantibodies to the PREsynaptic ACh receptor membrane
what is the etiology of MG
atuoimmune disorder assoc with thymus disorders
How does MG impact ACh receptors
anti-ACh-receptor antibodies are produced by the body which leads to a decrease in available ACh receptors for transmitting ACh across the NMJ
how is MG diagnosed
ACh-esterase inhibitors will improve patient symptoms OR EMG testing OR immunologic testing for anti-ACh-receptor Abs in the blood
MG clinical presentation
fluctuating weakness of proximal muscles!!!
muscles of the eyes and CN muscle often first to show signs!!!
describe the course of MG
variable, but slowly progressive. exacerbations may drive an MG crisis that endangers respiratory status
treatment options for MG other than PT
thymectomy (to stop autoantibody production), AChE inhibitors, corticosteroids for immune suppression, plasmapheresis, IVIG
As a PT, what can we offer MG patients
energy conservation and pacing, respiratory training, balance training, strengthening and aerobic training after exacerbation
