Acquired myasthenia gravis

Neurol Clin. 1997 Aug;15(3):577-95. doi: 10.1016/s0733-8619(05)70335-2.

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis, an antibody-mediated disorder of neuromuscular transmission that produces clinical weakness, may be ocular or generalized. Clinical diagnostic evaluation may be supplemented by electrophysiologic studies and antibody testing. Therapeutic options, including anticholinesterase inhibitors, immunosuppressive agents, plasmapheresis and thymectomy, are tailored for the individual patient. This article emphasizes the key aspects of the clinical evaluation, diagnosis, and therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoantibodies / analysis
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Motor Endplate / immunology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / innervation
  • Myasthenia Gravis / diagnosis
  • Myasthenia Gravis / etiology*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / therapy
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Receptors, Cholinergic / immunology

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Receptors, Cholinergic