Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies target acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, impairing nerve impulse transmission to skeletal muscles. This results in progressive, fluctuating muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest. The weakness characteristically affects ocular muscles first (ptosis, diplopia), then progresses to bulbar muscles (dysphagia, dysarthria) and potentially respiratory muscles. The nurse monitors for worsening weakness, respiratory status, and medication effects, reporting all changes immediately.