[Myasthenia gravis-Gender aspects and family planning].

BACKGROUND: There is evidence that gender-specific differences can influence the diagnostics, treatment and long-term disease course of myasthenia gravis (MG). In women the diagnosis is often made during childbearing age.

OBJECTIVE: Gender-specific differences in MG and relevant aspects in routine clinical practice are presented. In addition, current studies on family planning, pregnancy and childbirth in MG are highlighted and treatment recommendations are derived.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Narrative literature review.

RESULTS: In addition to sociodemographic data, gender-specific differences encompass clinical as well as paraclinical factors, such as disease severity and antibody status. With few exceptions pregnancy is possible with good maternal and neonatal outcome. During pregnancy and peripartum, children of MG patients should be closely monitored for early detection and treatment of potential syndromes caused by diaplacental transfer of maternal antibodies.

CONCLUSION: Gender-specific factors can influence the course of MG. Adequate medical counselling and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential for MG patients who wish to have children.