Paraneoplastic neuromuscular syndromes

Although paraneoplastic syndromes are rare, a number of well- defined, neuromuscular paraneoplastic syndromes have been described and their pathophysiology listed. Many different malignancies have been associated with these syndromes, but small-cell lung cancer is the most common. Features shared by these conditions include onset of the underlying malignancy, rapid progression, severe disability, and the potential for some improvement, owing to treatment of the cancer. This article discusses Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, motor neuron disorders, peripheral neuropathies, and disorders of continuous muscle fiber activity, such as Stiffman syndrome.