Etiology

  • Autoimmune antibodies against acetylcholine receptors

  • Associated with thymoma

Pathogenesis

  • Neuromuscular junction blockade → fatigable muscle weakness

Clinical Features

  • Ptosis, diplopia

  • Weakness worsens with use

  • Difficulty swallowing, speaking

  • Respiratory crisis in severe cases

Treatment

  • Pyridostigmine

  • Corticosteroids

  • IVIG or plasmapheresis (crisis)

  • Thymectomy