Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

myasthenia gravis
An autoimmune neuromus-
cular disorder that is characterized by fatigue and
exhaustion of muscles. Abbreviated MG. MG is
caused by a mistaken immune response to the
body’s own nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which
are found in junctions between muscles and the
nervous system. The body produces antibodies that
attack these receptors, preventing signals from
reaching the muscles. A number of treatments are
available that help, including steroids and other
immunosuppressive medications and anticholiner-
gic medications.
mycobacterium avium complex
A serious
opportunistic infection that is caused by two similar
bacteria, Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium
intercellulare, which are found in the soil and in
dust particles. Abbreviated MAC. In persons with
suppressed immune systems, such as people with
AIDS, MAC can spread through the bloodstream to
infect lymph nodes, bone marrow, the liver, the
spleen, spinal fluid, the lungs, and the intestinal
tract. Typical symptoms of MAC include night
sweats, weight loss, fever, fatigue, diarrhea, and
enlarged spleen. Antibiotics are commonly used in
MAC prevention (for persons with suppressed
immune systems) and treatment.
mycoplasma
A large group of bacteria, with
more than 100 types identified. Mycoplasma are
muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral
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very simple one-celled organisms without outer
membranes. They penetrate and infect individual
cells. Mycoplasma hominis and Mycoplasma pneu-
moniae are examples of mycoplasma bacteria that
occur in humans.
mycoplasma hominis
A common inhabitant of
the vagina that can cause infections of the female
and male genital tracts. Treatment involves use of
antibiotics, including tetracycline and erythromycin.