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In a message dated 7/25/99 8:44:07 AM Mountain Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes: << has anyone ever heard of this illness? Does anyone know if it can mimic = PD in any way? I don't believe it is one of the PD+ diseases. Thanks!! >> From "Taber's"...muscle weakness; a disease characterized by great muscular weakness (without atrophy) and progressive fatigability. It is due to a functional abnormality, lack of acetycholine or excess of cholinesterase at the myoneural junction, in which nerve impulses fail to induce normal muscle contractions. Etiol. unk. More common in females, occurs most frequenty between ages 20-50 Onset gradual, symptoms worse in evening. Patient complains of difficulty in chewing, swallowing, and talking. Expressionless facies and ptosis usually present!!! Some cases mild; others rapidly fatal, death resulting from respiratory failure. Course is variable. Prolonged remissiions may occur. Restricted activity; complete rest in severe cases. Soft of liquid diet; tube feedings sometimes essential.