Burden of disease in Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome: taking the patient’s perspective

Abstract

Background Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune-mediated neuromuscular disorder leading to muscle weakness, autonomic dysregulation and hyporeflexia. Psychosocial well-being is affected. Previously, we assessed burden of disease for Myasthenia gravis (MG). Here, we aim to elucidate burden of disease by comparing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with LEMS to the general population (genP) as well as MG patients. Methods A questionnaire-based survey included sociodemographic and clinical data along with standardized questionnaires, e.g. the Short Form Health (SF-36). HRQoL was evaluated through matched-pairs analyses. Participants from a general health survey served as control group. Results 46 LEMS patients matched by age and gender were compared to 92 controls from the genP and a matched cohort of 92 MG patients. LEMS participants showed lower levels of physical functioning (SF-36 mean 34.2 SD 28.6) compared to genP (mean 78.6 SD 21.1) and MG patients (mean 61.3 SD 31.8). LEMS patients showed lower mental health sub-scores compared to genP (SF-36 mean 62.7 SD 20.2, vs. 75.7 SD 15.1) and MG patients (SF-36 mean 62.7 SD 20.2, vs. 66.0 SD 18.). Depression, anxiety and fatigue were prevalent. Female gender, low income, lower activities of daily living, symptoms of depression, anxiety and fatigue were associated with a lower HRQoL in LEMS. Discussion HRQoL is lower in patients with LEMS compared to genP and MG in a matched pair-analysis. The burden of LEMS includes economic and social aspects as well as emotional well-being. Trial Registration Information drks.de: DRKS00024527, submitted: February 02, 2021, https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00024527.