Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular junction disorder in which normal communication between the muscles and nerves is disrupted by antibodies that obstruct or destroy the neurotransmitter receptors. Adults with myasthenia gravis have an abnormal thymus gland and sometimes develop tumors on this gland called thymomas. While these tumors are usually benign, they have the potential to become cancerous. The condition is most often diagnosed in women under the age of 40 and men over the age of 60, but it can affect people in every age group – including neonates. Today, patients with myasthenia gravis can obtain effective medical treatment to control their condition. This treatment centers on therapies and medications to improve muscle strength and neuromuscular transmission.