Lambert Eaton Syndrome

Question 1

Define Lambert Eaton Syndrome

Answer 1

Typically occurs in patients with small-cell lung cancer, results in autoantibodies against voltage gated calcium channels in SCLC cells which also target VGCC in the presynaptic terminals - less acetylcholine released

Question 2

What are the differences between Lambert Eaton syndrome and MG?

Answer 2

• LES symptoms improve with exertion
• LES associated with SCLC not thymoma
• LES symptoms start at extremities then move to head + neck + autonomic involvement (dry eyes + mouth)

Question 3

How do you treat LES?

Answer 3

Steroids (prednisolone) + immunosuppression (IV Ig)