Myasthenia gravis - A review of current therapeutic options

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that leads to skeletal muscle weakness and fatigue. The autoimmune attack is caused by autoantibodies against the acetylcholine postsynaptic receptors at the neuromuscular junction of skeletal muscles. However, other antigenic targets that are components of the neuromuscular junction have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of MG. The current standard of care is immunosuppressive therapy; however, many existing therapeutic options have not been validated for use in MG in large randomised controlled trials. Furthermore, around 10% of patients with generalised MG are refractory to treatment. The complement system is involved in numerous inflammatory, neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases, and is a key factor in the pathogenesis of acetylcholine receptor antibody-related MG. Targeting complement and other components involved in the underlying pathogenesis of the disease may provide useful treatment options, particularly for refractory patients.