Myasthenia gravis (MG)

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune neuromuscular condition characterized by weakness in the muscles involved in voluntary movement and breathing. It occurs when a person develops antibodies that block communication between nerve impulses and muscles. MG results in muscle weakness and muscle fatigue that can fluctuate from mild to severe throughout the day. Many patients have weakness in the eye muscles, causing droopy eyelid and double vision. Muscles involved in facial movement, speech, swallowing, neck movement, and limb movement can also be affected. Involvement of the respiratory muscles may cause difficulty breathing and can be very dangerous. While MG is a rare condition, it is believed to be underdiagnosed. It can present at any age, with females typically diagnosed younger than men. While there are several treatments that can help manage MG, including immunotherapies, they are not 100% effective and there is no cure. New therapies are needed to help MG patients.