Neuromuscular Junction Disorders

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to neuromuscular junction disorders, including definitions and distinctions between various conditions.

Presynaptic Disorders

Conditions that occur at the axon terminal of a neuron affecting neurotransmitter release.

Post Synaptic Disorders

Conditions affecting the receptor sites on the postsynaptic membrane where neurotransmitters act.

Botulism

A rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the nerves, leading to muscle paralysis.

Myasthenia Gravis

An autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness due to antibodies against nicotinic ACh receptors.

Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome

An autoimmune condition caused by antibodies against voltage-gated calcium channels that prevents ACh release.

Iatrogenic Botulism

Botulism caused by medical treatments, usually involving the use of Botox.

Infant Botulism

A form of botulism occurring in infants, characterized by muscle weakness and neurological symptoms.

Foodborne Botulism

Food poisoning caused by toxin from Clostridium botulinum, often due to improperly canned foods.

Wound Botulism

Botulism resulting from spores entering the body through a wound, often associated with injection drug use.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter released at the neuromuscular junction that initiates muscle contraction.

Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels

Channels that allow calcium ions to enter the presynaptic terminal, crucial for neurotransmitter release.

Active Zones

Specialized areas in the presynaptic membrane where synaptic vesicles release neurotransmitters.

Oculobulbar weakness

Weakness affecting the muscles of the eyes and throat, often seen in neuromuscular disorders.

Thymoma

A tumor of the thymus gland that can be associated with myasthenia gravis.

Antibody Testing

Tests used to detect specific autoantibodies, important for diagnosing autoimmune neuromuscular disorders.