LEMS
Medical abbreviation · Neurology
| Stands for | Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
LEMS stands for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, a neurology abbreviation.
Autoimmune disorder in which antibodies attack voltage-gated calcium channels at nerve endings, reducing acetylcholine release. It causes proximal leg weakness, reduced reflexes and dry mouth, and in about half of cases is associated with small cell lung cancer.
Example: Hip weakness, absent reflexes that briefly return after exercise, and dry mouth: LEMS suspected, CT chest for SCLC.
Usage notes
Unlike myasthenia gravis, strength and reflexes may briefly improve after repeated or sustained effort. Nerve conduction testing shows a marked increase in muscle response after brief exercise. Amifampridine, approved by the FDA in 2018, increases acetylcholine release. Treating an underlying tumor often improves symptoms.
Related abbreviations
More neurology abbreviations
- ICH – Intracerebral hemorrhage
- ICP – Intracranial pressure
- IIH – Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
- IVH – Intraventricular hemorrhage
- JME – Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
- LBD – Lewy body dementia
- LKW – Last known well
- LMN – Lower motor neuron
- LOC – Loss of consciousness
- LP – Lumbar puncture
- LVO – Large vessel occlusion
- MCI – Mild cognitive impairment
See all 131 neurology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.