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Lambert-Eaton Syndrome - Treatment

Alternative Names

Myasthenic syndrome; Eaton-Lambert syndrome

Treatment:

The primary goal of treatment is to identify and treat any tumors or other underlying disorders. Plasmapheresis, where blood plasma is removed and replaced with fluid, may improve symptoms.

Prednisone or other medications that suppress the immune response may improve symptoms in some cases. Medications can also include anticholinesterase medications such as Neostigmine or Pyridostigmine. 3, 4-diaminopyridine is a medicine that increases acetylcholine release from the nerves and helps keep the electrical nerve action working for longer.

Expectations (prognosis):

An important factor is whether there is an underlying tumor that can be treated. The symptoms of Lambert-Eaton syndrome may improve with treatment of the tumor and/or with suppressing the immune system. However, not all people respond well to treatment.

Complications:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms of this condition develop.

  • Reviewed last on: 8/7/2006
  • Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.