Myasthenia Gravis and Lambert‐Eaton Syndrome

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis is a common autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of pathogenic antibodies directed against the acetylcholine receptor. Patients present with variable degrees and distribution of fluctuating weakness at times life threatening. Clinical manifestations, establishment of diagnosis, the natural history of myasthenia gravis, and therapeutic options are herein reviewed. Far less common is Lambert‐Eaton syndrome (the myasthenic syndrome), another autoimmune disorder due to the presence of antibodies directed against the PQ‐type voltage‐gated calcium channels. Clinical features and treatment options are summarized.

Quality of life and life circumstances in German myasthenia gravis patients

“…Advances in medical therapy and intensive-care technology have increased the life expectancy of MG patients [3]. Within the last 10 years QoL aspects were focused increasingly in studies on MG patients - predominantly in clinical settings with a limited number of patients (see introduction).…”

“…The most critical time concerning progression of MG encompasses the first 2 to 3 years after onset with an implication for early treatment. After that period, MG tends to stabilize or improve [3,44]. Spontaneous remissions even have been reported [3].…”

“…After that period, MG tends to stabilize or improve [3,44]. Spontaneous remissions even have been reported [3]. Mantegazza et al reported the factors associated with complete, stable remission as being age at onset below 40 years, thymectomy, thymic hyperplasia, and female sex [45].…”

“…In a few cases, severe muscle weakness results in respiratory failure. Typically, symptoms increase during the daytime and improve with rest [3-5]. In addition, it has been suggested that cognitive functions such as response fluency, information processing, and verbal as well as visual learning may be involved [8,9].…”

“…Advances in medical therapy have continuously increased the life expectancy of MG patients without definitively curing the disease [3]. Within the last 10 years quality of life (QoL) aspects concerning MG were focused increasingly.…”