Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles, which are the muscles that connect to your bones and contract to allow movement. It is caused by antibodies that destroy the communication between nerves and muscles, resulting in muscle weakness and fatigue of varying severity. The disorder usually becomes apparent spontaneously, but in some cases, it may be triggered by environmental factors.
Some people have myasthenia gravis that isnt caused by antibodies blocking acetylcholine, MuSK or LRP4. This type of myasthenia gravis is called seronegative myasthenia gravis, also known as antibody-negative myasthenia gravis.
The symptoms of MG include muscle weakness and fatigue, which can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes, face, neck, and limbs. The severity of the symptoms can vary, and some people may experience only mild weakness, while others may have difficulty with basic activities such as walking, talking, and swallowing.
There is no cure for MG, but treatments can help manage the symptoms. Medications that reduce the activity of the immune system can help improve muscle strength and reduce the severity of symptoms. In some cases, surgery to remove the thymus gland, which is involved in the immune system, may be recommended. With treatment, most people with MG lead full, active lives.
In summary, myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease that causes muscle weakness and fatigue. It is caused by antibodies that destroy the communication between nerves and muscles, and there is no cure for the disease. However, treatments can help manage the symptoms, and most people with MG lead full, active lives.