[Marked improvement of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome resulting from treatment for small cell lung carcinoma]

Nihon Kokyuki Gakkai Zasshi. 2003 May;41(5):331-5.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

A 68-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of muscle weakness. A complete medical examination led to a diagnosis of small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) and the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Four courses of chemotherapy (carboplatin + etoposide) and one of radiotherapy with a total dose of 45 Gy to the mediastinum were performed and resulted in a partial response in the SCLC. After the second course of chemotherapy, the serum level of antivoltage-gated Ca2+ channel (VGCC) antibody decreased from 190 pg/ml to 120 pg/ml. Marked improvement of the muscle weakness was recognized only after 3 courses of chemotherapy. The patient, who had had difficulty in standing, recovered enough to be able to climb stairs after 4 courses of chemotherapy. Marked improvement of LEMS was achieved by treatment for small cell lung carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use*
  • Carboplatin / administration & dosage
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / complications
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / radiotherapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Etoposide / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome / complications
  • Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome / complications*
  • Lung Neoplasms / complications
  • Lung Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Lung Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Male

Substances

  • Etoposide
  • Carboplatin

Supplementary concepts

  • JET protocol