Lambert-Eaton syndrome


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Lambert-Eaton syndrome


Lambert-Eaton syndrome (also called Eaton-Lambert syndrome) is a very rare condition in which a person's immune system attacks nerve tissues it mistakenly identifies as invading organisms. As a result, electrical signals do not travel between nerves and muscles as they should, which typically causes weakness in the upper arm and thigh muscles.

Other symptoms may include a dry mouth, muscle pain, vision problems, and droopy eyelids (ptosis). Men with Lambert-Eaton syndrome may also be unable to achieve or maintain an erection.

Certain forms of cancer can sometimes trigger the development of Lambert-Eaton syndrome.

Credits


Author Monica Rhodes
Editor Maria Essig
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Last Updated July 29, 2008

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Last updated: July 29, 2008
Author: Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Editors: Maria Essig, Tracy Landauer

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