[Electrodiagnosis in disorders of neuromuscular transmission]

Electrophysiological studies are of recognized use in the confirmation of alterations of neuromuscular transmission in further determining their physiopathological characteristics, helping to differentiate them from other conditions with secondary effects on their function.

In our study we review the physiopathology of these disorders which compromise the safety factor of the neuromuscular junction, by presynaptic or postsynaptic alterations, and forms the basis of the results of electrophysiological studies. We describe the techniques currently most used: repetitive stimulation and single fibre electromyography complemented by conventional electromyography. Their application and findings in the commonest syndromes are discussed. Finally, their sensitivity, specificity and difficulties are considered.