Lambert-Eaton Syndrome

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Superficial anterior muscles

Myasthenic syndrome; Eaton-Lambert syndrome

• Weakness / paralysis that varies in severity
  • Drooping head
  • Difficulty climbing stairs
  • Difficulty lifting objects
  • Need to use hands to arise from sitting or lying positions
  • Difficulty talking
  • Difficulty chewing
• Swallowing difficulty , gagging, or choking
• Vision changes
  • Blurry vision
  • Difficulty maintaining steady gaze

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• Blood pressure abnormalities
• Dizziness upon standing
• Dry mouth

An examination shows weakness or paralysis that improves with activity. Reflexes may be decreased. There may be muscle atrophy (loss of muscle tissue).

A Tensilon test can be positive. A baseline muscle-strength evaluation is performed. After Tensilon (edrophonium) or other short-acting neurotransmitter is given, there may be a noticeable improvement of function.

EMG and nerve conduction velocity tests may confirm the diagnosis, with improved function as contraction is prolonged or with repetitive stimulation.

Review Date: 08/07/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.