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Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome

Evidence: Antibody

Names

Lambert-Eaton syndrome
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome
LEMS

Description

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the body’s immune system attacking tissue at the junction where nerves and skeletal muscles meet. The resulting inflammation and damage prevent the nerve cells from sending messages to muscle cells leading to muscle loss and weakness. LEMS has two types: one is LEMS triggered by small cell lung cancer, and the other starts spontaneously (“idiopathic”) without the presence of lung cancer.

Prevalence

US Cases: 800 - 1000 [Abenroth 2017]

Typical Age of onset

Idiopathic LEMS typically starts around age 35. LEMS caused by small cell lung cancer usually affects patients over 60 years old.

Symptoms

  • Weakness and fatigue

  • Weakening of the arm and leg muscles

  • Dry mouth

  • Dry eyes

  • Difficulty swallowing and chewing

  • Eyelid drooping

  • Bladder and bowel changes

  • Erectile dysfunction