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Lambert Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome

Treatments for LEMS

Source: NHS

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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 improve the symptoms of LEMS
  • medicationtohelp nerve signals reach the muscles commonly used medicines include3,4-diaminopyridine and pyridostigmine
  • medication to reduce the activity of the immune system (immunosuppressants) commonly used medicines include steroid tablets (prednisolone),azathioprineand methotrexate
  • immunoglobulin therapy injectionsof antibodies from donated blood thattemporarily stop your immune system attacking your nerves
  • plasmapheresis a procedure to redirect your blood through a machine that filters out the antibodies attacking your nerves

Medication is the main treatment, although immunoglobulin therapy and plasmapheresis may be recommendedin theshort term, or if muscle weakness is severe and other treatments haven't helped.

Articles for Lambert Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome

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

Introduction

Find out about Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, a rare condition affecting the nerves that causes muscle weakness and other symptoms.

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

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

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