Fast Five Quiz: Myasthenia Gravis Emergency Management

Richard Nowak, MD, MS

Disclosures

July 07, 2021

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a relatively rare acquired autoimmune disorder caused by antibody-mediated disruption of neuromuscular transmission. Approximately 10%-20% of patients with MG will experience a crisis, often within the first 2 years of diagnosis. When symptoms are exacerbated, muscle weakness can lead to neuromuscular respiratory failure, a state known as myasthenic crisis. The main concern with severe exacerbations of MG is the patient's ability to generate adequate ventilation and to clear oropharyngeal secretions. Rescue therapy is initiated and management is centered on identifying the precipitating cause, ruling out and treating infection, and providing airway support.

Can you identify an exacerbation of MG? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz.

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