Which disorder is primarily autoimmune in nature?

Myasthenia gravis is primarily an autoimmune disorder wherein the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly the communication between nerves and muscles. In this condition, antibodies are produced that block or destroy the receptors for acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for muscle contraction. As a result, signals from the nerves to the muscles are hindered, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.

Understanding the autoimmune nature of myasthenia gravis is essential, as it distinguishes it from other disorders listed in the question, which have different underlying mechanisms. Duchenne muscular dystrophy, for instance, is primarily a genetic condition caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, leading to muscle deterioration without an autoimmune component. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects motor neurons, whereas multiple sclerosis (MS) involves immune-mediated damage but manifests differently, primarily affecting the central nervous system and causing diverse neurological symptoms. Thus, myasthenia gravis stands out as a classic example of an autoimmune disorder.