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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffComplications of myasthenia gravis are treatable, but some can be life-threatening.
Myasthenic crisis
Myasthenic crisis is a life-threatening condition, which occurs when the muscles that control breathing become too weak to do their jobs. Emergency treatment is needed to provide mechanical assistance with breathing. Medications and blood-filtering therapies help people recover from myasthenic crisis, so they can again breathe on their own.
Thymus tumors
About 15 percent of the people who have myasthenia gravis have a tumor in their thymus, a gland under the breastbone that is involved with the immune system. Most of these tumors are noncancerous.
Other disorders
People who have myasthenia gravis are also more likely to have the following problems:
- Underactive or overactive thyroid. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, secretes hormones that regulate your metabolism. If your thyroid is underactive, your body uses energy more slowly. An overactive thyroid makes your body use energy too quickly.
- Lupus. Lupus is a disease in which your immune system attacks certain parts of your body. Common symptoms include painful or swollen joints, hair loss, extreme fatigue and a red rash on the face.
- Rheumatoid arthritis. This type of arthritis is caused by problems with your immune system. It is most conspicuous in the wrists and fingers, and can result in joint deformities that make it difficult to use your hands.
