"Dropped head syndrome" caused by Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome.

Abstract

A 67-year-old man was admitted with a 2-year history of dropped head. Neurological examination revealed ptosis, dysarthria, neck weakness, hyporeflexia of all limbs, and autonomic failure. Electrophysiologic study showed a 400% increment response to high-rate repetitive nerve stimulation. Serum anti-P/Q-voltage-gated calcium channel antibody was positive, confirming the diagnosis of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). His symptoms and electrophysiological abnormalities improved with oral prednisolone following plasmapheresis. This is the first report of LEMS as a cause of dropped head syndrome.

• Authors: T Ueda, F Kanda, H Kobessho, H Hamaguchi, M Motomura
• Journal: Muscle & nerve (Muscle Nerve) Vol. 40 Issue 1 Pg. 134-6 (Jul 2009) ISSN: 0148-639X [Print] United States
• PMID: 19533655 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Aged
• Head Movements
• Humans
• Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (complications, pathology)
• Male
• Movement Disorders (etiology, pathology)