What conditions might be confused with Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia Gravis causes muscle weakness that becomes significantly worse with activity. Double vision, swallowing and speaking abnormalities, difficulty walking and using the arms are common symptoms. Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) may produce similar symptoms, as well as muscle aches and dry mouth, but double vision is less common. Patients may also have impotence, constipation, impaired sweating, blurred vision and difficulties with urination. Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies damage the acetylcholine receptors and compromise the muscle side of the nerve-muscle communication point. LEMS is an autoimmune disease that affects the nerve and not the muscle. LEMS may be triggered by a lung cancer. An EMG test performed by an experienced neurologist differentiates Myasthenia Gravis from LEMS. Blood tests for certain antibodies may also help with their differentiation. Many of the treatments for the disorders are similar, although patients with LEMS m
