[T 0 N 2 M 0 small cell lung cancer in a patient with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome]

We report an unusual case of T 0 N 2 M 0 small cell lung cancer in a patient with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). A 52-year-old man began to notice muscle weakness in a left limb in January 1996, which was followed by muscle weakness in his left arm and fingers, appetite loss, and general fatigue. An electromyogram (EMG) showed the waxing phenomenon in response to high-frequency repetitive stimulation. Lambest-Eaton myasthenic syndrome was diagnosed, based on his symptoms and EMG findings. Chest computed tomography (CT) was done, and left paratracheal, tracheobronchial, subaortic, and hilar lymphadenopathy were found. No mass was seen in either lung field. Cytologic examination of the sputum and bronchial lavage fluid were done, but no malignant cells were found Small cell lung cancer was diagnosed after thoracoscopic resection of the subaortic lymph nodes. No metastases were detected by bone scintigraphy, abdominal CT, or magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. Complete response and resolution of symptoms were obtained by chemotherapy and irradiation.