Myasthenia Gravis

Author

Rebecca WheelerFollow

Academic Term

Summer 7-29-2022

Document Type

Project

Course Number

NURS 6810

Course Name

Adv Pathophysiology for the APN

Professor’s Name

Dr. Batross & Dr. Bhatnagar

Keywords

Myasthenia Gravis, Anesthesia, Pathophysiology, Treatment, Nursing, Neuromuscular

Subject Categories

Critical Care Nursing | Family Practice Nursing | Geriatric Nursing | Immune System Diseases | Medicine and Health Sciences | Musculoskeletal Diseases | Nervous System Diseases | Nursing | Perioperative, Operating Room and Surgical Nursing

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular and autoimmune disorder, is not completely understood by clinicians and scientists. The primary cause is thought to be anti-Acetylcholine receptor antibodies that attack the neuromuscular junction, causing destruction of post-synaptic junctional folds and blockade of the receptor. This causes frequent weakness and fatigability of voluntary muscles, making activities of daily living difficult for those living with MG. Although it is not an incredibly prevalent disease, the incidence is increasing in the United States due to better testing and diagnosis. Treatments are available, including cholinesterase inhibitors that raise the concentration of Acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction and steroids that help to suppress the immune system. This poster investigates the pathophysiology, diagnosis, signs, symptoms, and treatment of MG. It also discusses anesthesia and nursing implications for those unfamiliar with treating and anesthetizing patients with myasthenia gravis.

Licensing Permission

Copyright, all rights reserved. Fair Use

Recommended Citation

Wheeler, Rebecca, "Myasthenia Gravis" (2022). Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN). 504.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_msn/504