Myasthenia Gravis

The book introduces myasthenia gravis as a chronic autoimmune disorder that disrupts communication between nerves and muscles, leading to weakness. It explains the role of acetylcholine, acetylcholinesterase, and antibodies at the neuromuscular junction, as well as the function of the thymus gland in this disease.

Readers will learn about signs and symptoms including drooping eyelids (ptosis), double vision (diplopia), strabismus, fatigue, hoarse voice, difficulty chewing and swallowing, breathing problems, and muscle weakness that worsens with activity but improves with rest.

The book also covers complications such as myasthenic crisis and cholinergic crisis, explaining their causes and why they can be life-threatening. Diagnostic methods such as the Tensilon test, electromyography, and antibody testing are included.

Treatment options are described, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors like Pyridostigmine, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, plasmapheresis, and thymectomy. Side effects of treatments are also discussed.

This book will interest students, healthcare workers, and readers who want to learn more about myasthenia gravis, its complications, and how it is managed.