Myasthenia gravis and myasthenic syndromes

Myasthenia gravis is a progressive chronic autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness and rapid fatigue. When the pathology develops, the acetylcholine receptors are affected by autoantibodies, resulting in the development of muscle weakness. If left untreated, the swallowing mechanism and respiratory muscle function are impaired, which can seriously threaten the patient's life.

Symptoms and manifestations

In 85% of cases, myasthenia gravis begins with ocular symptoms and progresses to a generalized form within 2 years. Among the first signs of myasthenia gravis are drooping eyelids (often bilateral, but appearing to varying degrees in both eyes). In addition, the patient is disturbed by double vision, blurred vision. Symptoms are dynamic — they increase with prolonged wakefulness and decrease after rest.

In the generalized form of myasthenia gravis, such clinical signs are added:
    • weakness of the limb and body muscles (the patient cannot lift his arms up, it is difficult for him to walk);
    • slurred speech;
    • ingestion of liquid food into the nose;
    • problems with keeping the head straight (falls on the chest);
    • change in the tone of voice, etc.

Depending on the disease’s form, not all listed symptoms may be present. In any case, if signs of neuromuscular transmission disorder appear, an immediate appointment with a physician is required.
In Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (this is not myasthenia gravis, but the so-called myasthenic syndrome, which occurs with cancer pathology), the symptoms develop from the bottom up, that is, weakness in the legs first, it becomes difficult to walk, climb stairs.

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Reasons

Myasthenia gravis disrupts neuromuscular synapses. The immune system produces antibodies against the acetylcholine receptors of the postsynaptic membrane, resulting in impaired muscle contraction and relaxation. The causes of the pathology have not been precisely determined, but the triggering factors include infectious diseases and immune system disorders.

Congenital myasthenic syndromes are mostly caused by mutations in the COLQ gene. The dysfunction can affect both acetylcholine receptors and the synapse. Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome develops against the background of lung cancer or other malignancies.

Diagnostic methods

At the VIVERE CLINIC Medical Center, physicians use a comprehensive approach to diagnosing myasthenia gravis. The examination begins with a medical history and a blood test to detect antibodies against acetylcholine receptors.

In order to make an unmistakable diagnosis, various instrumental methods of examination are used. First of all, electroneuromyography (ENMG) with a Proserpine test is prescribed. For the purpose of differential diagnosis, MRI, EEG may be prescribed. Additional laboratory blood tests, instrumental studies to determine the degree of synapse damage and other features of the pathology may also be required.

In order to detect thymus tumors, a CT scan of the chest organs is necessarily performed.
All necessary examinations can be performed at our clinic. Thanks to a comprehensive approach VIVERE CLINIC doctors are able to diagnose and determine the cause of the pathology, which further helps to choose the right treatment strategy.

Prevention

There is no specific prevention of the disease today, but it is important to consult a doctor if you see the slightest signs of myasthenia gravis.

Treatment of myasthenia gravis and myasthenic syndromes

VIVERE CLINIC doctors choose therapeutic program individually for each patient, taking into account the causes, peculiarities of the disease, and other nuances. Drug therapy is used - anticholinesterase drugs (increase the concentration of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft). Complex therapy includes individually selected immunosuppressive agents:
    • corticosteroids;
    • cytostatics;
    • immunoglobulins.

For neonatal myasthenia gravis (in newborns), plasmapheresis is considered an effective treatment.
If a thymoma is detected, surgical removal of the thymus gland is performed.

Recommendations

If you experience unilateral eyelid ptosis, muscle weakness, and increased fatigue, you should seek medical attention at the VIVERE CLINIC. Delay can lead to the development of serious complications, up to and including disability. Early diagnosis greatly increases the chances of a full recovery.

Cost of VIVERE CLINIC services

The cost of myasthenia gravis or myasthenic syndrome treatment at the VIVERE CLINIC is not unambiguous. The cost is influenced by the examination and therapy methods used and their duration. Prices for individual services can be clarified with the doctor during the appointment or with the administrator.
You can make an appointment with a specialist by phone or through the online form on the website.

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Доброго дня! Нарешті я написала відгук, вже півроку з вами) Я мама дитини, яка до 18 років мала купу діагнозів, які і близько не мали відношення до нашої хвороби! Уявіть, скільки часу було витрачено... лікування ніяке (звісно) не допомагало, а ставало ще гірше. Доки нам не порекомендували Шейко Макар Васильовича! Сказати, що Він нам допоміг , це нічого не сказати! Макар Васильович врятував мою Софію! Завдяки правильній діагностиці, ми маємо НАШ діагноз (рідке орфанне захворювання) і правильне лікування. Я бачу поліпшення, моя дитина як заново народилася! Макар Васильович - це дбайлива і дуже чутна Людина, якій довіряєш! На прийомі немає оцього бар'єру лікар-пацієнт, ви як прийшли до друга, який вас підбадьорить, вислухає. Дуже рекомендую!

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Наталія

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