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Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disease leading to fluctuating muscle weakness and fatiguability. Affects the Neuromuscular Junction Mostly affects women TERM 2
Pathophysiology of Myasthenia Gravis
DEFINITION 2 Antibodies attack acetylcholine receptors Acetylcholine molecules are unable to attach and stimulate muscle contraction. Autoimmune process. TERM 3
Clinical Manifestations of Myasthenia Gravis
DEFINITION 3 Fluctuating weakness of voluntary muscles Strength is usually restored after a period of rest Muscles involved are eyes, eyelids, chewing, swallowing, speaking, and breathing, trunk, and limbs Voice fades after a long conversation TERM 4
Myasthenic Crisis
DEFINITION 4 Acute exacerbation of muscle weakness triggered by infection, surgery, stress, drug overdose or inadequate drugs MAJOR COMPLICATION: AFFECTS BREATHING AND SWALLOWING. TERM 5
How to Diagnose
DEFINITION 5 History and Phyisical EMG Tensilon Test
Tensilon Test
Improved muscle contractility after IV injection of the anticholinesterase agent Tensilon **Have atropine available TERM 7
Acetylcholinesterase
DEFINITION 7 An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine Prolongs the action of Acetylcholine and facilitates transmission of impulses at the neuromuscular junction. TERM 8
Anticholinesterase Drugs
DEFINITION 8 Neostigime (Prostigmin) Pyroidostigmine (Mestinon) TERM 9
IMPORTANT ABOUT ANTICHOLINESTERASE
MEDICATIONS
DEFINITION 9 Maintenance of stable blood levels is very important. ANTICHOLINESTERASE MEDICATION MUST BE GIVEN ON TIME Any delay may result in severe muscle weakness and make it impossible for patient to take meds orally. TERM 10
Classes of drugs that should be evaluated
before use...
DEFINITION 10 Anesthetics Antidysrhythmics Antibiotics Antipsychotics Barbiturates Sedative- Hypnotics Cathartics Diuretics Opioids Muscle Relaxers Thyroid Preparations Tranquilizers
