Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder. The signal
from the nerves to the muscles is blocked. As a result, the
muscle cannot move and become increasingly weaker. Symptoms may
grow more severe over time. This is a potentially serious
condition. MG requires care from your doctor. If you suspect you
have this condition, contact your doctor immediately. The root
cause of MG is unknown. It occurs when the body’s immune system
attacks receptors in muscle. Normally, these receptors respond
to the chemical acetylcholine (ACh). This chemical allows nerve
signals to prompt the muscles to move. When the immune system
prevents these receptors from working well, the muscles cannot
respond to nerve signals. The thymus is thought to play a role
in some cases of MG. The thymus is an organ behind the
breastbone. Immune proteins called antibodies are produced
there. It is these antibodies that may target the ACh receptors.
It is still not clear why the thymus begins to produce these.
Infants of mothers with MG are mo