[Clinico-epidemiologic aspects of myasthenia in the Georgian SSR].

A study of 161 myasthenic patients (91 women, 70 men) living in Georgia has shown that the incidence of myasthenia (M) in this republic is 3.2 per 100,000. A generalized form of M with bulbar disorders occurred most frequently (45.3%). A later onset of the disease (from 46-50 years of age) was observed in males. In women three peaks of disease onset could be determined (from 16 to 20, from 26 to 30 and 41 to 45 years of age). It is suggested that the process of urbanization of the population and urban living conditions (a high intensity of psychoemotional loads, environmental pollution, etc.) affect the development of the disease. Among signs that can be helpful in doubtful cases, the author cites the origin of the patient from places with a low relief, a comparatively dry climate, elevated mineralization of underground water and also coincidence of the time of their appearance with the "age peaks" characteristic of myasthenia patients in Georgia.