MIA
Mia: A Rare and Debilitating Autoimmune Disease
Description
Miastenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the communication between nerves and muscles. It occurs when the body produces antibodies that block or destroy the receptors for acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that triggers muscle contractions. As a result, muscles become progressively weaker and more easily fatigued.
Associated Diseases
MG is often associated with other autoimmune disorders, including:
- Thyroid disease (Graves' disease or Hashimoto's thyroiditis)
- Diabetes mellitus type 1
- Pernicious anemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus erythematosus
Did you Know ?
Approximately 1 in 40,000 people worldwide have MG. It affects men and women equally, but the onset is typically earlier in women.