A Case of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome with Positive VGCC Antibodies Diagnosed in Small Cell Lung Cancer.
10.4046/trd.2005.59.4.427
- Author:
So Young KIM
1
;
Hyo Jeong OH
;
Ki Eun HWANG
;
Jong Hoon JUNG
;
Hak Ryul KIM
;
Sei Hoon YANG
;
Kwang Ho CHO
;
Eun Taik JEONG
Author Information
1. Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine Wonkwang University, Iksan, Korea. kshryj@wonkwang.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome;
Small cell lung cancer
- MeSH:
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*
- From:Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
2005;59(4):427-431
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
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.
