Myasthenia Gravis

Question 0

What other pathology is associated with myasthenia gravis?

Answer 0

Thymus abnormalities (in 80%)

Question 1

What is the pathological process underlying myasthenia gravis?

Answer 1

Antibodies to post-synaptic acetylcholine receptors

Question 2

How is diagnosis of myasthenia gravis confirmed?

Answer 2

Administration of short-acting anticholinesterase (edrophonium)

If produces objective improvement in weakness , then positive test

Question 3

What serological findings are there in myasthenia gravis?

Answer 3

Antibodies to acetylcholine receptors found in 90%

Question 4

What imaging must be performed with newly diagnosed myasthenia gravis?

Answer 4

Chest CT

For thymic problems I think

Question 5

What is the first line treatment of myasthenia gravis?

Answer 5

Anticholinesterase drugs

Neostigmine (2hr duration of action)
Pyridostigmine (4hr duration of action)

Question 6

What may be required in the treatment of myasthenia gravis to prevent side effects?

Answer 6

Muscarinic inhibitor <– atropine

Question 7

What are the signs of cholinergic crisis?

Answer 7

Worsening weakness
Sweating
Miosis
Eventually resp failure

Question 8

What neurological condition is associated with thymus abnormalities?

Answer 8

Myasthenia gravis