4. Genetic Risk Factors
While science may not be able to identify the direct cause of the disease, according to clinical research, myasthenia gravis is not contagious, nor is it an inherited condition. However, some families have a genetic predisposition to the development of autoimmune diseases. While it’s a rare occurrence, myasthenia gravis can affect more than one member of a family.
Myasthenia gravis may have some genetic influence on the development of the disease. It’s unusual for mothers to pass it on to their children, but it does happen on occasion. Neonatal myasthenia gravis occurs in children born with the condition.
Causes for the development of neonatal myasthenia gravis include genetic defects leading to the circulation of maternal antibodies through the mother’s placenta. However, it’s important to note that affected children can recover in as little as two months if they receive the correct treatment and medical care for the disease.
Expecting mothers suffering from the disease should visit their medical practitioner for guidance on how to deal with the condition if it appears in your child after birth.