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Myasthenia Gravis: Clinical Features, Immunology, and Therapies

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Inflammatory Disorders of the Nervous System

Part of the book series: Current Clinical Neurology ((CCNEU))

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorder. This uncommon disease is characterized by fluctuating muscle weakness that worsens with exertion and improves with rest. The initial presentation is consistent with involvement of the extrinsic ocular muscle. The myasthenia usually progresses to involve other bulbar muscles and limb musculature, resulting in generalized myasthenia gravis. Although the etiology of the disorder remains unknown, the role of circulating antibodies directed against the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in its pathogenesis is well recognized. The disease is treatable; therefore, prompt diagnosis is crucial. Fortunately, significant progress has been made in our understanding of the disease, leading to new treatment modalities and a significant reduction in the related morbidity and mortality.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. LSUHSC School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, 433 Bolivar St, New Orleans, LA, USA

    Wael Richeh MD, John D. Engand MD & Richard M. Paddison

  2. Shannon Clinic, Brain and Spine Institute, San Angelo, Texas, USA

    Wael Richeh MD

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  1. Wael Richeh MD
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  2. John D. Engand MD
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Correspondence to Wael Richeh MD .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurology, LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana, USA

    Alireza Minagar

  2. Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana, USA

    J. Steven Alexander

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Richeh, W., Engand, J.D., Paddison, R.M. (2017). Myasthenia Gravis: Clinical Features, Immunology, and Therapies. In: Minagar, A., Alexander, J. (eds) Inflammatory Disorders of the Nervous System. Current Clinical Neurology. Humana Press, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-51220-4_11

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-51220-4_11

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