Is It Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome?

These researchers sought to identify any differences in the distribution of muscle weakness that might help to differentiate myasthenia gravis (MG) from the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic . . .

These researchers sought to identify any differences in the distribution of muscle weakness that might help to differentiate myasthenia gravis (MG) from the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). They retrospectively reviewed data from 101 patients with MG and 38 patients with LEMS, focusing on the pattern of muscle involvement at disease onset and at maximum disease severity. At onset, patients were grouped as having ocular, bulbar, or limb involvement. Categories of involvement at maximum severity were ocular, oculobulbar, limbs only, and generalized (limbs plus ocular or bulbar).

The distribution of muscle weakness differed significantly between the LEMS and MG groups. Isolated ocular involvement was seen only in patients with MG. Arm …

Reviewing Author

Hannah Briemberg, MD, FRCP(C)