Management of Myasthenia Gravis in Pregnancy

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by fluctuating weakness of extraocular and proximal limb muscles. It occurs in 1 in 5000 in the overall population and is 2 times more common in women than men. The onset in women is most common in the third decade, and risk of severe exacerbation occurs most frequently in the year after presentation. The disease does not have an impact on fertility and overlap with pregnancy is expected. This article provides a description of the disease process and its impact on the expecting mother, fetus, and newborn. Management options in pregnancy and lactation are discussed.