Myasthenia Gravis Is an Autoimmune Disorder in Which Antibodies Attack

question 83

Multiple Choice

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies attack acetylcholine receptors. The resulting muscle weakness is likely due to

• A) increasing the amount of acetylcholinesterase in the synapse.
• B) making the cells less permeable to sodium ions.
• C) increasing the amount of potassium ion in the intercellular fluid.
• D) making the plasma membranes more permeable to calcium ion.
• E) antibodies competing with acetylcholinesterase for acetylcholine.

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Definitions:

Blood Sugar

The concentration of glucose present in the blood, significant in the diagnosis and management of diabetes.

Aldosterone

A hormone produced in the adrenal glands that acts on the kidney. It causes the body to retain sodium and excrete potassium. Its role is to maintain blood volume and pressure.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into tissues.

Cortisol

A steroid hormone that is released when a person is stressed. It decreases protein synthesis.