LEMS
Causes of LEMS
LEMSis caused by the body's natural defences (theimmune system) mistakenly attacking and damaging the nerves.
Normally, nerve signals travel down the nerves and stimulate the nerve endings to release a chemical called acetylcholine.This chemical then helps activate the muscles.
If the nerve endings are damaged, the amount ofacetylcholine they produce decreases, which means nerve signals don't reach the muscles properly.
It's not known what triggers the immune system to attack the nerves. It's often associated with lung cancer, but can occur in people without cancer.
LEMS is not inherited.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, a rare condition affecting the nerves that causes muscle weakness and other symptoms.
Symptoms of LEMS
The symptoms of LEMS develop gradually over weeks or months. The main symptoms are weakness in the legs, arms, neck and face, as well asproblems with automatic body functions, such as controlling blo
Causes of LEMS
LEMSis caused by the body's natural defences (theimmune system) mistakenly attacking and damaging the nerves. Normally, nerve signals travel down the nerves and stimulate the nerve endings to release
Tests for LEMS
Your GP will first check your medical history, ask about your symptoms, carry out a physical examination, and test your reflexes. If they think you have a problem with your nerves, they may refer you
Treatments for LEMS
There's currently no cure for LEMS, but a number of treatments can help reduce the symptoms. These include: treatment for lung cancer if you have lung cancer, treating it can significantly impr
Outlook for LEMS
Some people respond well to treatment and are eventually able to stop taking medication, although this may not be for several years. Others respond less well and find thecondition affects their every
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