Neuromuscular junction in health and disease

Abstract

A number of illnesses and other factors can affect the function of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). These may have an affect at pre- or post-junctional sites. This review outlines the anatomy and the physiology of the NMJ. It also describes the mechanisms and physiological basis of many of the disorders of the NMJ. Finally, the importance of these disorders in anaesthetic practice is discussed. © The Board of Management and Trustees of the British Journal of Anaesthesia 2007. All rights reserved.