LAMBERT-EATON MYASTHENIC SYNDROME

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome is an autoimmune disease, which affects our body’s neuromuscular junctions, interfering with the nerve cells’ capacity to send messages to our muscle cells. Hence, this condition also harms our muscle tissues and causes difficulties in moving. 

Furthermore, individuals who have this disease often suffer from muscle weakness, dry mouth, and fatigue. Also, this condition still doesn’t have an existing cure, but its symptoms can be managed with certain medications.

SYMPTOMS

Leg weakness and trouble walking are the most common symptoms of LEMS. This is accompanied by weakness in the shoulders and upper arm, making self-care difficult.

Moreover, as the condition worsens, you may also notice:

  • Muscle weakness in the face
  • Muscle aches and pains that are uncontrollable
  • Constipation
  • Mouth that is dry
  • Impotence
  • Bladder issues

LEMS is also linked with a number of problems, including:

  • Breathing 
  • Weakening in the eye muscles
  • Those involved in talking, swallowing, and chewing, similarly to myasthenia gravis (MG)
  • Infections
  • Falling-related injuries or coordination issues

In addition, individuals with LEMS often have autonomic (involuntary) nervous system dysfunction. Nevertheless, this occurrence is mostly not severe.

DIAGNOSIS

When you visit your doctor, Your doctor will take a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam. Your doctor will check your:

  • reduced reflexes
  • muscular tissue degeneration
  • weakness or inability to move that increases with activity

Furthermore, your doctor may also conduct other tests to make an accurate diagnosis. These tests include:

  • Blood tests
  • Electromyography
  • Nerve Conduction Velocity Test 

TREATMENT

In order to treat Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, an intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment may be recommended by your doctor. In this, your doctor will inject a nonspecific antibody that soothes the immune system.

Aside from that, plasmapheresis is another treatment option. The plasma is separated from the blood after it has been taken from the body. Then, the plasma is reintroduced to the body after the antibodies have been eliminated.

Moreover, certain medications that operate with your muscle system might occasionally help you feel better These include:

  • Mestinon or pyridostigmine
  • 3, 4 Diaminopyridine (3,4-DAP)

These medications are not easy to obtain. Hence, talk to your doctor for more information.

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