Guide To Treating Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome is best described as an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy nerve cells located in the neuromuscular junctions. These junctions are where the muscles connect to nerves, which are responsible for communicating with the muscle cells that cause the muscles to move in a certain way. Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome interferes with the process of communication, and it does so by using antibodies to attack these nerve cells. The antibodies inhibit the nerve cells from producing sufficient amounts of a chemical called acetylcholine, which is responsible for the transmission of impulses between muscles and nerves. A lack of it results in problems with being able to move the muscles normally. Common symptoms associated with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome include muscle weakness, difficulty walking, tingling in the feet or hands, difficulty breathing, changes in the bladder and bowel, and excessive fatigue.

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Potassium Channel Blockers

Because there is no current cure for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, no known method can inhibit the immune attack that causes interference in the nerve to muscle communications. Even though nothing can be done about that specifically, alterations can be made to the electrical activity passing through the affected areas. Potassium channel blockers are able to increase the duration of the electrical activity when it passes through the neurotransmitter junction. This increases the release of acetylcholine and the influx of calcium into the ending of the nerve. Due to the fact Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome acts to stop the production of acetylcholine, the use of potassium channel blockers can help neutralize that effect by stimulating the release of larger amounts of acetylcholine. Ultimately, the result of this neutralization is neuromuscular transmission is enhanced, and muscle weakness is reduced. This type of channel blockers can also help reduce other symptoms, including tingling in the hands and feet, problems walking or breathing, and excessive fatigue.

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