Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in brief

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome is a rare neurological syndrome of autoimmune origin. It is usually associated with small-cell lung cancer but may be idiopathic. The main clinical feature is potentially disabling limb muscle weakness. Clinical signs of autonomic nervous system involvement are frequent. The muscle weakness often improves with physical exercise, which distinguishes this syndrome from myasthenia. Tendon reflexes are reduced or absent but reappear temporarily after brief muscle contraction. Diagnosis is confirmed by electromyographic findings. Management is generally based on treatment of the underlying malignancy. Immunosuppressants are used in severe disease and in cases not associated with cancer, but they have limited efficacy. Symptomatic treatments are available but their efficacy is poorly documented.