Tuberc Respir Dis.  2005 Oct;59(4):427-431.

A Case of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome with Positive VGCC Antibodies Diagnosed in Small Cell Lung Cancer

• Kim SY
• Oh HJ
• Hwang KE
• Jung JH
• Kim HR
• Yang SH
• Cho KH
• Jeong ET

Abstract

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), a rare autoimmune neurological syndrome, is caused by defects in the secretion of acetylcholine from the presynaptic membrane, and is associated with the destruction of voltage gated calcium channels (VGCC) in the neuromuscular junction. LEMS can be confirmed by repetitive nerve stimulation and by the clinical symptoms, which are characterized by proximal muscle weakness in the lower extremities, decreased deep tendon reflexes and autonomic dysfunctions. In about 60% of patients with this disorder, underlying cancer-small cell lung cancer may be detected. Clinical symptoms may precede the diagnosis of malignancy, with the early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying malignancy being possible through the diagnosis of LEMS. A case of LEMS, with positive VGCC antibodies, in a 48-year-old man, which improved after chemotherapy of the underlying small cell lung cancer, is reported.

Keyword

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome; Small cell lung cancer

MeSH Terms

Acetylcholine
Antibodies*
Calcium Channels
Diagnosis
Drug Therapy
Early Diagnosis
Humans
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome*
Lower Extremity
Lung Neoplasms
Membranes
Middle Aged
Muscle Weakness
Neuromuscular Junction
Reflex, Stretch
Small Cell Lung Carcinoma*
Acetylcholine
Antibodies
Calcium Channels