The nurse’s guide to myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease that causes a defect in the postsynaptic membrane in the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), resulting in excessive fatigue and fluctuating muscle weakness.1 The affected muscles may include those that control eyelid motion, facial expression, chewing, swallowing, speaking, and the extremities. Weakness may worsen with activity and improve with rest. Symptoms may be mild but can become life-threatening if the disease affects respiratory muscles because this can result in respiratory failure.1 This article presents the pathogenesis, signs, symptoms, and management of patients with MG.