Neuromuscular Disorders Flashcards
What are the two main mechanisms by which NMJ disorders occur?
Failure to release ACh
Failure to respond to ACh
What is myasthenia gravis?
Autoimmune disorder caused by autoantibodies against ACh receptors on the post synaptic end plate
How does myasthenia gravis present?
Fatigable muscle weakness worse on activity, better in morning
Slurred speech
Difficulty chewing/swallowing/blinking
Transient double vision
Why is a CT of mediastinum performed in myasthenia gravis?
To look for thymoma
How is myasthenia gravis investigated?
CT
Autoantibody screen
Nerve conduction study
What antibodies are present in myasthenia gravis?
Anti-ACh receptor antibodies
What do nerve conduction studies show in myasthenia gravis?
Decreasing response of muscle through repetitive stimulation
How is myasthenia gravis treated?
Prednisolone
Pyridostigmine
Azathioprine
Thymectomy
What does pyridostigmine do?
Prevents ACh breakdown
What can be used in myasthenia gravis if prednisolone and pyridostigmine are unsuccessful?
IV immunoglobulins
What are the main side effects of pyridostigmine?
GI upset
Excess saliva
What is Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome?
Autoimmune NMJ disorder involving antibodies against voltage gated Ca2+ channels
What condition is Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome associated with?
Small cell lung cancers
How does Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome present?
Proximal limb weakness, lower limbs affected first
How is Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome investigated?
Nerve conduction studies and CXR