Paraneoplastic Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome: a diagnostic challenge
- PMID: 36707096
- PMCID: PMC9884852
- DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-250947
Paraneoplastic Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome: a diagnostic challenge
Abstract
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a rare neuromuscular junction disorder. Underlying small cell lung cancer is found in more than half of patients. Proximal muscle weakness, autonomic features and areflexia are typical manifestations. However, LEMS is often misdiagnosed. We report a rare case of paraneoplastic LEMS, identified amid admission due to a different diagnosis. Our patient was initially admitted due to aspiration pneumonia. Further investigation revealed clinical and electrophysiological manifestations of LEMS. High clinical suspicion and early diagnostic workup were paramount in the patient outcome. Nevertheless, paraneoplastic aetiology was difficult to confirm and revealed itself a difficult challenge. Clinical awareness is crucial to diagnose LEMS and urge cancer screening and early treatment.
Keywords: Lung cancer (oncology); Neuromuscular disease.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2023. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.
Conflict of interest statement
Competing interests: None declared.
Figures


References
-
- Lambert EH, Eaton LM, Rooke ED. Defect of neuromuscular conduction associated with malignant neoplasms. Am J Physiol 1956;187:612–3.
-
- Jayarangaiah A, Theetha Kariyanna P. StatPearls. In: Lambert Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2022. - PubMed
Publication types
MeSH terms
Substances
LinkOut - more resources
Full Text Sources
Medical