A case of small cell lung cancer with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome and paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration

Abstract

Background. Paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (PNS) is known as an immunological disease accompany in malignant diseases. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is one of the most important causes of PNS. We report a case of SCLC with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) and paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD). Case. A 62-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of difficulty in standing and walking. A complete medical examination led to a diagnosis of SCLC with LEMS and PCD. Four courses of chemotherapy (carboplatin + etoposide) and concurrent radiotherapy with a total dose of 45 Gy were performed and resulted in a complete response. Marked improvement of his muscle weakness enabled ambulation. However cerebellar ataxia persisted after therapy. Conclusion. Marked improvement of LEMS was achieved, however PCD symptoms persisted in spite of the treatment of SCLC. © 2005 The Japan Lung Cancer Society.