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.
Patient Groups
Bloggers
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
