Please read our disclaimer Myasthenia Gravis is a disease characterized by fluctuating weakness, improved by inhibitors of cholinesterase, due to a defect in neuromuscular transmission caused by antibodies to acetylcholine receptor. Females predominate among those less than 40 years old. Men and women are equally affected after age 40. Thymoma is more common in the older age group. Fluctuating weakness is the hallmark.
Patients are usually weaker in the evening.
If disease remains confined to eyes for 2 years disease will probably not spread. The Tensilon test is a bedside method of making the diagnosis. Give 0.2 cc Tensilon intravenously and see if weakness improves. If there is no response, give 8 more mg. Jitter testing with single fiber EMG may be more sensitive than repetitive stimulation.