The immune system attacks the synaptic junction between the nerve and muscle fibers, blocking acetylcholine receptor sites in:
A) myasthenia gravis.
B) encephalitis.
C) multiple sclerosis.
D) cerebral palsy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease involving the lower motor neurons and muscle fibers. The immune system of infected individuals produces antibodies that destroy acetylcholine receptor sites at the neuromuscular junction. This blocks the nerve impulse from reaching the muscle and produces muscle fatigue. Encephalitis is acute inflammation of the brain and spinal cord involving the meninges. It is often caused by a virus, such as the herpes simplex virus. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by a combination of inflammation and degeneration of the myelin in the brain's white matter, leading to obstructed transmission of nerve impulses and decreased brain mass. Cerebral palsy is a permanent disorder of movement and posture development associated with nonprogressive (static) disturbances that occurred in the developing fetal or infant brain.

The Immune System Attacks the Synaptic Junction Between the Nerve