저자들은 점점 진행하는 하지무력증을 주소로 내원한 48세 남자에서 전기생리검사를 시행하여 VGCC양성인 LEMS를 진단하였고, 동반한 소세포폐암을 진단하여 항암요법을 시행하였고 완치 판정을 받은 후 특별한 치료 없이도 LEMS의 임상증상과 전기생리검사에서 호전을 보인 1예를 경험하였기에 이를 보고하는 바이다.
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), a rare autoimmune neurological syndrome, is caused by defects in the secretion of acetylcholine from the presynaptic membrane, and is associated with the destruction of voltage gated calcium channels (VGCC) in the neuromuscular junction. LEMS can be confirmed by repetitive nerve stimulation and by the clinical symptoms, which are characterized by proximal muscle weakness in the lower extremities, decreased deep tendon reflexes and autonomic dysfunctions. In about 60% of patients with this disorder, underlying cancer-small cell lung cancer may be detected. Clinical symptoms may precede the diagnosis of malignancy, with the early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying malignancy being possible through the diagnosis of LEMS. A case of LEMS, with positive VGCC antibodies, in a 48-year-old man, which improved after chemotherapy of the underlying small cell lung cancer, is reported. (Tuberc Respir Dis 2005; 59: 427-431)
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