UPDATES AND PERSPECTIVES ON MYASTHENIA GRAVIS

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to a search the literature on myasthenia gravis (MG). Methodology: Literature search was conducted in the electronic databases PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo and Bireme, in the last ten years, and other articles that had extreme historical importance were also included. Results: MG is an autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness, whose pathogenesis is related to the destruction of neuromuscular transmission by different mechanisms, such as decreased nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, destruction of proteins involved in the neuromuscular formation or the activity of antibodies on a specific muscle protein kinase (MUSK). The current treatment of MG is based on the use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids, thymectomy, immunosuppressants, intravenous immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis. Early identification of MG and its precipitating factors make this disease more accessible to new treatment modalities such as monoclonal antibodies, prolactin, and tacrolimus crotamine. Conclusion: A better knowledge about molecular mechanisms has provided the development of new therapeutic options necessary to alleviate severe crises, leading to a proper prognosis. New findings may contribute to the quality of life of patients, resulting in remission of the disease and not just in relieving its symptoms. DESCRIPTORS: Myasthenia Gravis. Acetylcholine. Combined Modality Therapy. Immune System.