Myasthenia gravis Flashcards
What is myasthenia gravis?
neuromuscular disorder characterised by severe muscular weakness and fatigue
What is the pathophysiology behind myasthenia gravis?
auto IgG bind with acetylcholine receptors on post synaptic muscle cells and induce T cell mediated destruction of these ACh receptors, this causes blocked ACh transmission at the Neuromuscular Junction
When does myasthenia gravis commonly occur?
after pregnancy, after anaesthetic, post part or due to drugs e.g. beta blockers, lithium, magnesium
What is early onset MG associated with?
increased adaptive immune response in the thymus
What may cause MG?
HLA genes
thymic tumour
How can MG be treated?
anticholierases - to increase neurotransmission
immunosuppressives - reduce autoimmunity
thyroidectomy
eculizumab - complement inhibitor
