[Myasthenia gravis. New results on etiology, diagnosis and therapy]

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis is discussed with reference to recent immunologic findings, improvements in diagnostic procedure, and therapy. Myasthenic reactions can be produced in animals by injection of receptor proteins. In addition, the injection of thymopoietin causes neuromuscular block. The majority of patients with myasthenia gravis have antibodies against acetylcholine receptors, and there is a markedly reduced number of bungarotoxin binding receptors at the endplates. Further, recent immunologic findings indicate that genetic factors may be involved in the etiology of myasthenia gravis. The recently developed single fiber electromyography is useful in the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis. New statistics demonstrate the value of thymectomy in the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Good results have been reported following treatment with corticosteroids and azathioprine.