Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in children

J Child Neurol. 2002 Jan;17(1):74-6. doi: 10.1177/088307380201700123.

Abstract

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome is a presynaptic disorder of neuromuscular transmission. It is characterized by muscle weakness, hyporeflexia, and autonomic dysfunction. It is most often associated with small cell carcinomas of the lung. Rare cases have been reported in children. We recently encountered two children with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome associated with antibodies to P/Q-type calcium channel but without evidence of neoplasms. Both patients showed prolonged and significant improvement following cyclosporin treatment. The diagnosis of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome should be considered in children with progressive weakness and a negative work-up for the usual causes. High-frequency repetitive nerve stimulation and P/Q-type calcium-channel antibodies may confirm the diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Autoantibodies / blood
  • Calcium Channels, P-Type / immunology
  • Calcium Channels, Q-Type / immunology
  • Child
  • Cyclosporine / therapeutic use
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Median Nerve / physiopathology
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Synaptic Transmission / drug effects
  • Synaptic Transmission / physiology
  • Ulnar Nerve / physiopathology

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Calcium Channels, P-Type
  • Calcium Channels, Q-Type
  • Cyclosporine