About Myasthenia Gravis

What is Myasthenia Gravis ? 

Myasthenia Gravis, sometimes called MG, is a rare, autoimmune, neuromuscular condition that causes muscle weakness and fatigue.(1) In fact, the name literally means “serious muscle weakness,” which is the main symptom.(2)

 In patients with MG, communication between the nerve and the muscle (at the neuromuscular junction) is disrupted, causing muscle weakness that can be severe and have a significant impact on patients’ lives.

The disease can affect any voluntary muscle, including those controlling eye movements, facial expression, speaking and swallowing, and arms and legs. In more life-threatening cases, MG can affect muscles responsible for breathing.

The most common symptoms of the disease (10-12)

Eyelid drooping

Blurred or double vision

Difficulty speaking

Difficulty chewing/swallowing

Difficulty supporting neck

Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing

Difficulty walking/standing

Weakness in the arms and legs

Chocking

Fatigue from repeated muscle use

Did you know ?


Between 56,000 and 100,000 people are affected by MG in Europe (6).

There are 6 types of MG: generalised MG, ocular MG, seronegative MG, congenital MG, juvenile MG and transient neonatal MG. (7,8,9)

MG is not genetic (inherited), and it’s not contagious. (10,11)

MG affects people of all ages, but it is slightly more common in women 20 to 30 years old and men 50 to 60 years old. (12, 13)

Explore more useful content

Why does MG happen?

 

Have you ever heard of the neuromuscular junction? It's at the centre of the conversation when we try to understand why MG happens.

Learn more

The 6 types of MG

 

MG comes in many types with differing symptoms. Let’s discover and learn more about the 6 types of MG.​

Learn more

How is MG diagnosed?

 

Diagnosing MG involves a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals. Explore the nuances of MG diagnosis and the main symptoms that can reveal it.

Learn more

Initiate the conversation with your doctor

Living with myasthenia gravis shouldn't stop you from doing the things you love. By talking to your healthcare professional, you can find a management plan that is tailored to your personal goals.

read more

REFERENCES :

1. Hehir MK, et al. Neurol Clin. 2018;36(2):253-260.

2. MGFact Sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Website. Updated March 2020. Accessed May 2020. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/myasthenia-gravis-fact-sheet

3. Grob D, et al. Muscle Nerve. 2008;37(2):141-149.

4. Myasthenia Gravis. Muscular Dystrophy Association Website. Accessed November 2022. https://www.mda.org/disease/myasthenia-gravis/signs-and-symptoms

5. Tworks S, et al. Health Qual Life Outcomes. 2010;8:129.

6. Sanders DB, Wolfe GI, Benatar M, Evoli A, Gilhus NE, Illa I, et al. International consensus guidance for management of Myasthenia Gravis: Executive summary. Neurology. 2016;87(4):419-25.

7. Hehir MK, et al. Neurol Clin. 2018;36(2):253-260.

8.Farrugia ME, et al. Front Neural. 2020;11:604.

9. O'Connell K, et al. Front Neurol. 2020;11:743.

10. Ramanujam R, et al. Twin Res Hum Genet. 2011;14:129-136.

11. Ssobor A. Acta Med Hung. 1989;46(1):13-21.

12.Mantegassa R, et al. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2003;998:413-23.

13. United States 2019 Population Estimates. United States Census Bureau website. Accessed May 2020. https://www.census.gov/search-results.html?searchType=web&cssp=SERP&q=us%20population.

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argenx, a global immunology company, created MG United to support people living with MG and those who care for them. By providing information on MG United, argenx aims to help improve the lives of people suffering from this autoimmune disease. MG United does not offer medical advice; always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical guidance. The brands listed are the trademarks of their respective owners.