Causes of Myasthenia Gravis

Cause of Myasthenia Gravis: Myasthenia gravis is caused by a defect in the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles. Normally when impulses travel down the nerve, the nerve endings release a neurotransmitter substance called acetylcholine. In myasthenia gravis, antibodies produced by the body's own immune system block, alter, or destroy the receptors for acetylcholine. ¹

Underlying condition causes of Myasthenia Gravis: The list of possible underlying conditions (see also Misdiagnosis of underlying causes of Myasthenia Gravis) mentioned in various sources as possible causes of Myasthenia Gravis includes:

• Thymus tumor
• Thymus abnormality

Related information for causes of Myasthenia Gravis: Further relevant information on causes of Myasthenia Gravis may be found in the risk factors for Myasthenia Gravis and underlying causes of Myasthenia Gravis.

Footnotes:
1. excerpt from NINDS Myasthenia Gravis Information Page: NINDS

Last revision: June 4, 2003

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