Doctors typically classify myasthenia gravis (MG) into different types based on three main factors: which parts of the body are affected, what types of antibodies are present, and the age when symptoms first appeared.
The two main categories based on affected body areas are
1. Ocular myasthenia gravis - affects only the Show Full Answer
Doctors typically classify myasthenia gravis (MG) into different types based on three main factors: which parts of the body are affected, what types of antibodies are present, and the age when symptoms first appeared.
The two main categories based on affected body areas are:
1. Ocular myasthenia gravis - affects only the eyes and vision
2. Generalized myasthenia gravis - affects multiple muscle groups throughout the body When classified by antibody type, most people (about 85%) have acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies. A smaller group has MuSK antibodies, while some people have neither - this is called seronegative myasthenia gravis.
Age-related classifications often distinguish between early-onset MG (more common in women under 40) and late-onset MG (more common in men over 60). African American women also have a higher likelihood of developing MG.
May 23, 2025