Which of the following is a neuromuscular disorder that can cause dysphagia?

• A. Autonomia
• B. Myasthenia Gravis
• C. Botulism
• D. Tick Paralysis

Answer: (B)

Dysphagia can stem from weakness of the swallowing muscles when there is a disruption at the neuromuscular junction. Myasthenia Gravis fits this scenario because it is an autoimmune disorder that targets the sites where nerves communicate with muscles. Antibodies block or destroy acetylcholine receptors, so the signal to contract is weakened, and the bulbar muscles that control swallowing become fatigued with use. This causes trouble swallowing, especially with repeated swallows or longer meals, and can lead to choking or nasal regurgitation. The key feature is fatigable bulbar weakness, which is classic for a neuromuscular transmission problem like MG.

While other conditions listed can affect swallowing, they do so through different mechanisms or present differently. Botulism and tick paralysis involve toxins impacting neuromuscular transmission or nerve function acutely, not the autoimmune, fluctuating weakness typical of MG. Autonomia isn’t a neuromuscular disorder affecting swallowing muscles, so it doesn’t fit the scenario as clearly.