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Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Reviewed 03-19-2003 Get Web page suited for printing Email this to a friend or colleague Studies with patients Table of Contents (click to jump to sections) What is Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome?Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Organizations What is Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome? Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a disorder of the neuromuscular junction-the site where nerve cells meet muscle cells and help activate the muscles. It is caused by a disruption of electrical impulses between these nerve and muscle cells. LEMS is an autoimmune condition; in such disorders the immune system, which normally protects the body from foreign organisms, mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. The disruption of electrical impulses is associated with antibodies produced as a consequence of this autoimmunity. Symptoms include muscle weakness, a tingling sensation in the affected areas, fatigue, and dry mouth. LEMS is closely associated with cancer, in particular small cell lung cancer. More than half the individuals diagnosed with LEMS also develop small cell lung cancer. LEMS may appear up to 3 years before cancer is diagnosed. Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association
Muscular Dystrophy Association
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
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