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Congenital myasthenic syndromes

Congenital myasthenic syndromes are a group of conditions that are characterised by weak muscles that tire easily (myasthenia). In people with these conditions, myasthenia typically begins shortly after birth or during early childhood. The most commonly affected muscles are the muscles in the head and neck (bulbar muscles) that control chewing and swallowing, speech, and facial expressions; the muscles that move the eyes and eyelids; and the muscles in the arms and legs. However, any of the muscles used for movement (skeletal muscles) can be affected.

Description

Congenital myasthenic syndromes are a group of conditions that are characterised by weak muscles that tire easily (myasthenia). In people with these conditions, myasthenia typically begins shortly after birth or during early childhood. The most commonly affected muscles are the muscles in the head and neck (bulbar muscles) that control chewing and swallowing, speech, and facial expressions; the muscles that move the eyes and eyelids; and the muscles in the arms and legs. However, any of the muscles used for movement (skeletal muscles) can be affected.

In individuals with congenital myasthenic syndromes, episodes of severe weakness or breathing problems may be triggered by fevers, infection, or tiring physical activity. The severity of the myasthenia varies greatly, from minor muscle weakness to severe weakness that may require wheelchair assistance.

Babies with congenital myasthenic syndromes may have feeding difficulties. Some affected babies may also experience short pauses in breathing (apnea) that can lead to a bluish appearance of the skin or lips (cyanosis). In severe instances, a lack of movement before birth can lead to joint deformities (contractures) that cause joint stiffness (arthrogryposis) and impair movement.

Children with congenital myasthenic syndromes may have speech problems (dysarthria) or swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). The development of motor skills, such as crawling or walking, may be delayed in these children.

Inheritance patterns

The source lists the following possible inheritance patterns: Autosomal recessive; Autosomal dominant. More than one pattern can apply in different cases.

Other names

CMS

Congenital myasthenia

Congenital myasthenic syndrome

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Lectures complémentaires et références

Historique de l'article

Les informations sur cette page sont rédigées et examinées par des cliniciens qualifiés.
  • 13 Feb 2026 | Dernière version
  • 1 fév 2026 | Publié à l'origine

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