Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026
A Metadata Extraction Approach for Clinical Case Reports to Enable Advanced Understanding of Biomedical Concepts
Published on: September 20, 2018
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome: Ocular Signs and Symptoms
Jeffery D Young1, Jacqueline A Leavitt
1Department of Surgery (JDY), Division of Ophthalmology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont; and Department of Ophthalmology (JAL), Mayo Foundation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
Background:
To evaluate ocular signs and symptoms in Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) and determine the frequency of ophthalmic involvement.
Methods:
A retrospective review of the medical records of all patients diagnosed with LEMS at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, from January, 1976, to December, 2010, was performed with special attention to ophthalmic symptoms and signs.
Results:
One hundred seventy-six patients met the inclusion criteria. Ophthalmic symptoms included ptosis in 41 (23%), diplopia in 36 (20.5%), decreased vision in 24 (14%), and dry eye complaints in 12 (7%). Ophthalmic signs included ptosis in 45 (26%), abnormal ocular motility in 15 (8.5%), strabismus in 14 (8%), pupillary dysfunction in 12 (7%), and findings consistent with dry eyes in 4 (2%).
Conclusions:
A significant number of patients reported ophthalmic symptoms, and many had objective findings on clinical examination consistent with these symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series of ophthalmic findings in patients with LEMS and indicates that these patients warrant a complete ophthalmic examination.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment
These antibodies interfere with the function of the nicotinic receptors in three ways: by binding to the receptor and disrupting acetylcholine binding; by causing cross-linking of receptors which...
01:28Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
01:15Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnostic Tests
The edrophonium test is a diagnostic tool for myasthenia gravis. It involves...
01:17Accessory Structures of the Eye
01:20Muscles of the Eye
Extraocular Muscles
The six extraocular muscles surround the eyeball and control its movements. They are responsible for a wide range of eye motions, including looking up, down, left, right, and...
01:25Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis