Ophthalmoplegia associated with lung adenocarcinoma in a patient with the Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome: A case report. Issue 22 (June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tang, Yufeng; Wang, Ke; Chen, Zhonglun; Zhou, Muke; Duan, Jingfeng; Liu, Tao; Zhou, Dong
• Other Names: Schaller. Bernhard section editor.
• Is Part Of: Medicine. Volume 96:Issue 22(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-06
• Subjects: diplopia -- Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome -- lung adenocarcinoma -- ptosis; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Périodiques; Geneeskunde; Medicine; Periodicals; Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000006484
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-7974

Abstract

Abstract: Rationale: The Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a neuromuscular disease; its unique symptoms of LEMS include dry mouth with a metallic taste, constipation, and erectile dysfunction. As it is quite rare, isolated ocular muscle impairment associated with LEMS east to ignore. Patient concerns: A 65-year-old man presented with alternating ptosis and diplopia. Isolated ocular muscle impairment had lasted for 6 years, and the patient was initially diagnosed with ocular myasthenia gravis (MG). Treatment with azathioprine only slightly improved symptoms over the first 2 months; long-term treatment was not effective. Diagnoses: Dynamic observation of chest computed tomography images revealed a slowly progressing nodule in the lower lobe of the left lung. The subsequent pathologic examination following mass resection confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. Interventions: The patient was ultimately diagnosed with the Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome associated with pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Outcomes: Resection of the lung tumor relieved all symptoms. Lessons: Other causes of ocular MG symptoms should be considered when standard MG therapy is ineffective, especially the Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome.